BOSTON, March 6, 2020 / PRNewswire / – Blue Cross Blue Shield from Massachusetts (Blue Cross) monitors and responds to the serious problems posed by the COVID-19 coronavirus epidemic, and we are taking immediate action to accelerate access to testing and care for our members.
Starting today, we will:
- Cover the full cost of diagnostic tests for COVID-19 for all fully insured members who meet CDC guidelines for testing. Members of fully insured plans will not be subject to any co-payment, co-insurance or deductible for these tests. Self-funded employer groups will also have the option of waiving cost sharing for these tests.
- In accordance with guidelines released today by the Massachusetts Department of Insurance, we will also cover the cost of vaccination when a COVID-19 vaccine is available, and waive co-payments for medically necessary COVID-19 treatment in offices medical, emergency rooms and emergency care centers. Any medically necessary treatment against coronavirus is covered by a member’s health plan United States or internationally.
- Remove all administrative barriers, such as prior approvals and referrals, for medically appropriate care for COVID-19.
- Renounce co-payment for members with access to Well Connection, our telehealth platform. Telehealth, which offers both convenience and the ability to avoid potential exposure to contagion, is included in all members’ health plans with telehealth benefits, and we will contact all employer accounts without advantage to make sure they know that this option is also available. We will also promote our 24/7 nurse hotline, which is available free to all members and offers a safe and convenient clinical resource for minor ailments or questions.
- Increase access to prescription drugs. In accordance with the CDC’s recommendation to have a month’s supply of medication, members will have access to early refills of 30-day prescription maintenance medication. We will ensure the flexibility of the form in case of shortage or access problems.
- Educate and inform the public on how to contain the spread of the virus. We have launched a regularly updated resource center that includes information on staying safe, a downloadable tip sheet for employers, a video introducing one of our doctors and a FAQ. Our health news site, Coverage, produces original and timely news articles reporting what health consumers need to know about COVID-19.
“We want our members to know that we are supporting them at this critical time,” said Andrew Dreyfus, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. “We applaud Gov. Charlie Baker’s approach this issue and share its commitment to ensuring the health and safety of our neighbors, today more than ever. Our members should not face any barriers to getting the care they need as we face the ongoing challenge of the coronavirus. “Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts coordinates with other Blue Cross Blue Shield plans across the country to ensure members have access to testing and treatment no matter where they live. Blue Cross Blue Shield plans follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as other federal recommendations and will continue to support and protect the health and well-being of members and the community.
About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Blue Cross Blue Shield from Massachusetts (bluecrossma.com) is a non-profit community health care plan with its head office located at Boston. We are committed to tirelessly pursuing quality and affordable health care with an unrivaled customer experience. In keeping with our promise to always put our members first, we are ranked among the best health plans in the country for member satisfaction and quality. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
SOURCE Blue Cross Blue Shield from Massachusetts
Related links
http://www.bluecrossma.com