Healthfirst

Update: Delay in Portal Transition for Back Pain and Spinal Surgery Authorizations

The planned transition to Optum's Spine, Pain, and Joint portal for prior authorization submissions-originally scheduled for September 3, 2025-has been postponed. Portal users will be notified of the new go-live date and details at least 30 days in advance. Please continue using the OrthoNet portal for all back pain management and spinal surgery prior authorizations, until further notice.

Reminder: If you haven't already, we encourage you to register for a One Healthcare ID (OHID) to prepare for the future transition.

Spinal Surgery and Pain Management

Healthfirst has delegated the utilization management of spine surgery, as well as interventional pain management procedures (not including trigger point injections) in all outpatient settings to OrthoNet. To review authorization requirements, go to https://hfproviders.org.

Services for members covered by Healthfirst's programs require prior authorization through OrthoNet. Healthfirst will continue to provide all other related services for these procedures such as claim payment, patient case management, member and provider services.

Clinical Criteria used for Pain and Spine Utilization Management

Prior Authorization Submission
and
Status
To begin using our secure site; you must create a user account.
  • New User-Account Request Form

    • To submit authorization check status
  • Request Authorization or Check Status

    • Click on the Web Portal FAQ for Step by Step directions.

    Contact
    Pain Management
    844-504-8091
    Fax: 844-478-8250

    Spinal Surgery
    844-504-8091
    Fax: 844-478-8250

    Health Plan Web Sites
    Click here to access HealthFirst's website