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Is My Healthcare Provider Covering COVID-19 Testing and Treatment?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially increased the severity of COVID-19 from an outbreak to a pandemic. The United States has over 1,000 confirmed cases and at least 30 deaths that have been attributed to COVID-19. Worldwide there has been more than 120,000 cases reported and over 4,000 deaths.

With more than 100 countries affected, some drastic steps are being taken to contain COVID-19 and limit the number of cases and deaths. All across our nation we are seeing schools and universities shifting to online learning environments or prolonging spring breaks, sporting events are being canceled, and entertainment venues are shutting their doors.

So what does this mean for your healthcare? Will COVID-19 testing and treatments be covered?

IRS Notice 2020-15
On March 11, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2020-15 to advise that high deductible health plans (HDHPs) can pay for 2019 COVID-19 testing and treatment before plan deductibles have been met, without jeopardizing their status. According to the IRS, this also means that individuals with HDHPs that cover these costs may continue to contribute to their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). The IRS also noted that any COVID-19 vaccination costs count as preventive care and can be paid for by an HDHP without cost sharing. 

Health Plan Coverage Information
To protect the public from the growing spread of COVID-19, many states are directing or encouraging health insurance issuers to cover COVID-19 testing without imposing a deductible or other cost sharing. Some issuers are voluntarily waiving cost sharing for COVID-19 testing, without a state directive.
  
Your Healthcare Provider Communications 
Do you know what your health insurance provider is doing in response to the Coronavirus? We have provided links to the member information for each carrier below.

Aetna
Anthem
UnitedHealthOne
UnitedHealthCare
Excellus/Univera
BCBS Arizona
BlueShield California
BCBS Kansas City
BCBS Massachusetts
BCBS Michigan
BCBS Nebraska
BC Northeast Pennsylvania
BCBS Rhode Island
BCBS Tennessee
Capital
CareFirst MD
Cigna
CommonGround WI
Fidelis Care
Geisinger
BCBS Illinois
BCBS Texas
BCBS Oklahoma
Health Partners Minnesota
Highmark Delaware
Highmark Pennsylvania
Highmark West Virgina
Horizon New Jersey
Humana
Independence BC
Lucent Health
MVP Health
Regence BS of Idaho
Regence of Oregon
Regence BCBS of Utah
Regence Health of Idaho
Regence BS of Washington
Select Health of Idaho
Select Health Utah
Sutter Health Plus
Presbyterian Health New Mexico
UMPC
If you have any questions about your coverage, please do not hesitate to give us a call at 877-466-9089 and speak with one of our Benefits team members.