How are Health insurance companies responding to the CoronaVirus?
Health Insurance providers are committed to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Below is a summary of how certain Medicare Advantage carriers are addressing this situation.
Aetna will waive copays for all diagnostic testing related to COVID-19. Aetna is also offering zero copay telemedicine visits for any reason. Aetna will now offer 90 day maintenance medication prescriptions for Medicare members and they are working with state governments to make this option available to Medicaid members. Aetna will waive early refill limits on 30 day prescription maintenance medications for members with pharmacy benefits administered through CVS Caremark. CVS Pharmacy will waive charges for home delivery of prescriptions. Aetna will also send those diagnosed with COVID-19 a care package. Lastly, CVS Health is offering programs to help people address anxiety and stress of COVID-19. Here is the number you can call. 866-370-4842
Anthem will cover the cost of Coronavirus testing with no out of pocket cost. Prior authorization is not required for diagnostic services related to COVID-19 testing.
Geisinger will cover any out of pocket costs for Coronavirus testing at an approved lab for members who meet the CDC guidelines for testing. All members can use the Teledoc telehealth services without cost sharing. This benefit is not limited to coronavirus/COVID-19 related cases. Members may use Teledoc for any routine medical need such as cold, flu, allergy, rash, sinus infection and more. You can call by phone at 800-Teledoc to request a call from a doctor. Teledoc will provide an estimate of when doctor will contact the member.
Highmark will cover Coronavirus testing when recommended by a medical professional.
United Healthcare will waive the members costs for approved diagnostic testing for COVID-19. United Healthcare has also opened Optum’s Emotional Support Help Line, free of charge to anyone who may be suffering from fear or stress of COVID-19. The number for the Emotional Support Help Line is 866-342-6892 and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Please be aware that at this time you are still responsible for any doctor or hospital copays. Only the costs associated with the diagnostic testing related to COVID-19 is being waived.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office at 1-800-642-3490 and we are more than happy to assist you.