Please select an employee benefits carrier from the following options:
Please select a property/casualty carrier from the following options:
Important to note:
- Aetna will cover the cost of COVID-19 testing
- Telemedicine visits will be $0 copay for 90 days - for any reason.
Additional resources:
Sources: Aetna
- If an employer must terminate all employees for 60 days and then rehire them, would the group coverage remain active?
The group would remain active with zero members for two months, and then resume coverage after 60 days. Rates and plan benefits would not change.
- Will coverage terminate if the payment is late?
No. Ameritas will not mail any late payment notices during this time, and we’ll work with customers to extend grace periods.
- Will coverage continue if an employee was furloughed or temporarily laid off?
a. Dental
For dental coverage an employer/employee has the option to do what’s best for them:
- Option 1: If they terminate the coverage during this crisis and send us the termination date, and we would no longer charge premium and claims payments would stop during this timeframe. When employment resumes, they can reinstate the coverage and if this is done within 12 months, their benefits (deductible, maximums) will resume as if they’ve never left.
- Option 2: If they want to continue coverage, they can pay premium via COBRA. In this scenario, claims payments continue as normal and when they come back to work, they would resume payroll deduction or employer contributions.
b. Vision
For vision coverage, some plans use a calendar year and others are based on the date of service. If a member terminates vision coverage (VSP, EyeMed or VisionPerfect) during a furlough period and then reinstates that coverage within the plan year or within 12 months, coverage will resume with the same plan frequencies. If coverage is reinstated after 12 months or after the plan year is complete, the plan would start over with new frequencies based on the new effective date.
- How long will this furlough policy continue?
This would last for the length of the crisis. We understand that some employers could be in crisis mode long after the coronavirus is contained. We will work with groups individually to do what’s best for them.
- Does the furlough policy pertain to all products?
This policy pertains to dental, vision, hearing, and LASIK coverage.
- If an employee’s hours are reduced to a level below the Member Definition, can coverage be continued?
Yes.
- We understand that this will occur as employers are trying to maintain their own service levels. We trust our policyholders and know that they’re trying to do what’s best for their employees during this time. How long will coverage continue for employees whose hours are reduced?
We understand that this crisis could last long after the coronavirus is contained. We know that our policyholders are trying to do what’s best for their employees and trust their judgement. If they consider the member eligible for benefits, we will too.
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Source: Ameritas
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American Fidelity understands the coronavirus is impacting the daily lives of our customers and is causing possible disruptions to the employers we serve. We are prepared to handle circumstances related to the coronavirus through our business continuity protocols. Ensuring continuous service for our customers is a top priority.
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Sources: American Fidelity
As the impact of coronavirus grows, we would like to provide some important updates and to assure you that you are our top priority.
As long as the group is submitting enrollments and sending premiums, members will remain as active. There will not be any new plan documentation created at this time.
- What is the policy for retaining the employees on the plan, even though they may be laid off or furloughed?
We do not administer COBRA, but your COBRA administrator can help maintain any furloughed employees’ benefits.
- If terminated from the plan for a month, will employees be allowed back on the plan without a probationary period?
Yes, at the request of the client, we will waive probationary periods through June.
- If terminated from the plan for a month, will employees have the waiting period for major and orthodontic care, or will you allow a special, one-time exception?
We allow exceptions at the request of the benefits manager whenever possible.
- What action are you taking for employer groups that need to reduce the hours of currently enrolled full-time employee to below 30 per week?
We will allow employers to continue covering staff at their discretion, using the employer generated eligibility file as the determinant, making exceptions as requested.
- For employer groups that may temporarily lay off active enrolled employees, how long can those employees remain on the active group?
Please see your insurance policy and contact us for questions or exceptions.
- What if my providers are not seeing patients right now?
Are there temporary higher coverage levels for out-of-network care if needed? We are working to maintain a provider directory that highlights providers who are open, so every effort should be made to see an in-network provider. If you need further assistance, please call your account manager.
Sources: Avesis
Auto-Owners Insurance is closely monitoring developments from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We are committed to the health and safety of our associates and agencies while maintaining operational services for our policyholders.
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Sources: Auto-Owners Insurance
Furloughed employees can stay on the plan, without meeting eligibility requirements.
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Blue Shield of California’s top priority is to ensure our members have access to quality, affordable care and that our shared communities are safe as we work to confront the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). As a nonprofit health plan with members and employees across California, we are taking immediate steps to support Gov. Newsom’s action to expand COVID-19 coverage to promote the health, safety, and well-being of all Californians.
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Sources: Blue Shield of California
Chubb understands that many of our policyholders have been severely impacted by the events surrounding the novel coronavirus, and we are committed to working with them to make accommodations based on their specific situations. Our number one priority is to help our clients minimize any disruption. During these uncertain times, we will be looking for ways to accommodate our insureds in alignment with guidance provided by state regulators.
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Sources: Chubb
Cigna is committed to improving your health, well-being, and peace of mind.
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Sources: Cigna
Cincinnati puts the health and safety of our associates, agents and customers at the top of our priorities. That's why we've put our business continuity plans in action, ensuring we do our part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 while continuing to deliver the outstanding service you deserve. We know it's important to keep our business running, ready to serve you and fulfill the promises we've made to you.
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Sources: Cincinnati Insurance
Continental Western Group (CWG) is dedicated to providing you the greatest service possible during and through the current COVID-19 crisis. We are providing you with the following information to explain how we are adapting our services to provide you with the personalized service and care that you have come to expect from CWG.
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Sources: Continental Western Group
Iowa
We will work with any employer based on their specific needs. Few, if any, of our group plans have new hire waiting periods, so that should be of minimal concern. In the cases where it is, we can make exceptions as needed. We can certainly waive late entrant waiting periods for employees who’ve been, or will be, laid off and brought back. We also understand there may need to be flexibility around retro terminations and additions in circumstances like we have today.
Illinois
Sources: Delta Dental
Our mission at Dental Select is to make things simple. We believe that mission is more important now than ever before. Amidst so much uncertainty, you can be certain of our commitment to you and the health of our members.
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Sources: Dental Select
The situation regarding coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, and EMC is taking the necessary precautions to protect the well-being of our team members, agents, policyholders and communities.
Our brand promise is Count on EMC®, and we are open for business. Our team members are working remotely to continue to offer our agents and policyholders the excellent service they deserve and expect from EMC, while keeping our team members safe. In the interest of protecting everyone’s health and safety, please refrain from visiting our locations at this time.
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Sources: EMC
Encova continues to monitor the developments of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Although we don't anticipate any service interruptions, you can follow our updates here. Together, Motorists Insurance Group and BrickStreet Insurance are building a stronger future. With combined insights from decades of industry experience and expanded product offerings, we have come together to push innovation forward for our agents and policyholders. We are now Encova Insurance.
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We understand that many Grinnell Mutual customers could experience financial hardship from the cancellations and closures due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Grinnell Mutual has deployed a coronavirus (COVID-19) response plan that will help maintain business continuity and decrease the risk of exposure to our customers, our employees, and the communities we live in. We want to assure you that we are continuing to do business and are committed to serving you during this rapidly changing event.
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We continue to protect the health and safety of our customers, their families and our colleagues. We are prepared. We are taking a number of steps to make sure you can connect and do business with Guardian without interruption. Our team has transitioned to remote work, and we are engaged with our third-party partners and vendors to maintain normal business operations.
Coverage During Temporary Layoff
If your Active Work ends because you are temporarily laid off, you and your employer may agree to continue your insurance, subject to continued payment of all required premium, until the earlier of:
- The end of the temporary layoff; or
- The end of the month in which You are laid off plus 1 months.
- The end of the time period covered under a severance agreement not to exceed 1 months.
If You die or become Disabled under this Certificate while Your coverage is being continued during a temporary layoff, Your eligibility for benefits will be governed by all the terms of this Certificate.
Coverage During Temporary Leave of Absence
If Your Active Work ends because You go on a leave of absence that has been approved by Your Employer, You and Your Employer may agree to continue Your insurance, subject to continued payment of all required premiums, until the earlier of:
- The end of the Employer approved leave of absence; or
- The end of the month in which Your leave begins plus 1 months.
If You become Disabled under this Certificate while Your coverage is being continued during a leave of absence, Your eligibility for benefits will be governed by all the terms of this Certificate.
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With cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) being confirmed, we know members have a lot of questions and concerns. Please see the below updates.
Upcoming Key Actions from HPUPH:
- We’re working hard to prevent the spread of the virus and protect our members, patients and the community.
- We are prepared as a health plan and care group and have had a taskforce working since January as we anticipated the spread of COVID-19.
- We continue to monitor and will adapt accordingly to the changing situation.
- Our coverage approach is based on the current public health concern. If and when that changes, we will reevaluate our coverage criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How is COVID-19 testing being covered?
We are waiving cost-sharing for administration of the COVID-19 laboratory test. (regardless of where the test is performed). We are also waiving the cost-sharing related to an office visit or urgent care visit associated with the test. Members can find benefit details by signing into healthpartners.com or calling Member Services at the number on the back of their member ID card.
**The coverage criteria above will be applied to self-insured groups unless they choose to opt-out. A separate communication will be sent to our self-insured groups to communicate this. A decision will need to be made by March 13, 2020.
- How is COVID-19 treatment being covered?
There are currently no approved treatments specifically for COVID-19. Any care recommended by a provider will be covered under the member’s benefits. Applicable cost sharing will apply, no different than if someone needed care for influenza. We’re closely monitoring the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Minnesota’s Department of Health’s (MDH) recommended guidance. As the situation evolves, we are continuously evaluating coverage needs.
- What should my employees do if they think they have COVID-19?
We recommend members call their primary care clinic. CareLine is also available 24/7, 365 days a year, at no cost to members. Call (866) 843-3461. We anticipate telemedicine triage options to be available shortly, and will share with members, patients and groups once they are available.
- Where can my employees go for care if they think they have COVID-19?
When seeking care, we recommend members get care at their primary care or urgent care clinic.
- Where can I and my employees get the most up-to-date information?
The most updated information for HealthPartners members and patients is available at healthpartners.com/coronavirus.
Sources: HealthPartners
Covid-19 Updates. Unwavering support.
The safety and well-being of our employees, customers and partners is HSA Bank's top priority. We're actively monitoring the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and following advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health officials.
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Sources: Humana
The impact of COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation. Multiple states have now ordered the temporary shutdown of onsite drinking and dining for bars and restaurants. ICC recognizes the impact these shutdowns are having our customers. Therefore, we are announcing a suspension of all premium billing for 30 days, beginning March 20, 2020.
Sources: Illinois Casualty Company (ICC)
For all Kaiser Permanente plans, cost-sharing (deductibles, copayments and coinsurance) will be reduced to zero dollars ($0.00) for medically necessary screening and testing for COVID-19 including the visit, associated lab testing, and radiology services in a plan hospital, emergency or urgent care setting, or medical office. This cost-sharing reduction will apply to all Kaiser Permanente and other plan (participating) providers. If a member is diagnosed with COVID-19, all treatment including but not limited to hospital, transportation and pharmacy services will be covered in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the coverage document for the member’s health plan.
Kaiser Update on Care Delivery (Colorado)
Kaiser Permanente is committed to Colorado and to providing excellent health care for all our members. As the CORONAVIRUS/COVID-19 situation rapidly advances, the demands on the health care system threaten to exhaust our supplies, our equipment, and our people.
Temporary Changes to Care Delivery
We are taking temporary steps to ensure we can continue to provide the high-quality care our members need while also preparing for the oncoming increase in the number of patients with COVID-19. We will be taking the following steps that will allow us to conserve supplies and equipment, as well as help address community spread of COVID-19.
Key steps Kaiser Permanente Colorado is taking over the next week:
- Effective Immediately: Expanding Telehealth and Virtual Care to allow our members to stay at home if they want, and to increase the number of patients we can treat.
- Beginning March 17: Temporarily Postponing Non-Urgent Surgeries and Procedures to ensure we have capacity and equipment to care for the potential of more critically ill patients.
- Beginning March 23: Temporarily Consolidating Medical Offices and decreasing the need for in-person care wherever possible. This will help reduce unnecessary potential exposure for members and staff.
Kaiser Permanente Urgent Care Remains Open
We will have our Urgent Care locations open:
Kaiser Permanente Medical Offices Remaining Open as of Monday, March 23
To continue serving the needs of our members for in-patient care and pharmacy needs, the following medical offices will remain open:
The health and safety of our members, patients, employees, and communities remains our top priority.
We recognize these temporary measures may cause some inconveniences, but given the rapidly changing situation in Colorado, we believe these are necessary actions.
If you develop symptoms (fever, cough, trouble breathing) or you believe you’ve been exposed, it’s important to contact us first so we can direct you to the most appropriate care.
- Call the advice number 303-338-4545 (TTY 711) to speak with a licensed care provider or to schedule a telephone or video appointment.
- Chat with a doctor on kp.org or on the KP app.
- Visit kp.org/getcare and click on “24/7 advice.”
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Sources: Kaiser Permanente
At Liberty Mutual the well-being of our customers and employees is always our top priority. We're actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to keep employees and customers healthy and to minimize disruptions to our customers.
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Lincoln Financial is here to help you remain confident and prepared during this evolving situation. We're continuously monitoring the latest news, information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other regulatory and medical experts to offer targeted guidance and support.
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You're focused on health and well-being - for your customers, your employees and yourselves. So are we. We want you to know that we're here for you and operationally prepared to handle all customer questions and service all claims in a timely manner.
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At Mutual of Omaha, we exist for for our customers. That's why we want you to know that we're closely monitoring the global coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and taking precautionary measures to promote the health and safety of our customers and associates.
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A message from Mark Berven, President and COO, Nationwide Property & Casualty:
As we continue to adapt to the current situation, I wanted to share some quick updates with you about how we're responding to the coronavirus (COVID-19).
- Beginning immediately, we will move to all virtual interactions with you and your staff. If you need anything, we are only a phone call or email away.
- As we move to work from home for the majority of our operations, you may choose to take advantage of our self-service options or request an automated call-back to reduce your wait time.
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Sources: Nationwide
Any groups that are active with NewBenefits are able to pause and reactivate membership if needed.
Sources: NewBenefits
Dealing with the effects of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on you, your investments, your retirement account and your business.
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We're here to help. We hope you and your family are healthy and holding up well through the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19). While COVID-19 is causing disruption in our communities, we're committed to making sure that you have the protection and support you need.
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At Safeco, the well-being of our customers, independent agents, and employees is always our top priority. We’re actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to keep employees and customers healthy and to minimize disruptions to our customers.
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Sources: Safeco
As news about the coronavirus pandemic continues to dominate headlines and thoughts around the world, SFM's attention remains focused on serving you. In this challenging time, we'd like to remind you that we're here to work with you and your customers through any obstacles we encounter.
It's clear that COVID-19 has already had a negative impact on many businesses and we realize that this includes your valued customers. If you are concerned about their ability to pay their workers' compensation premiums on time, please make sure they are aware that we're prepared to work with you to avoid cancellation. As part of our approach, SFM has extended the grace period for all policy invoices. Beginning March 25, we will withhold cancellation notices for an additional 30 business days.
Sources: SFM
As the scope and complexity of the coronavirus/COVID-19 outbreak grows, The Standard is confident in our response and in our continued ability to meet and exceed customer expectations.
- Will employees’ Group Life, Disability, Supplemental, Dental and Vision coverage continue if their work hours are reduced or they are subject to a furlough or a temporary layoff?
Group Life, Disability, Supplemental (including Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity), Dental and Vision coverage normally ends when an employee loses eligibility because the employee is no longer working the required minimum number of hours.
However, as an accommodation to our policyholders during this time of uncertainty, subject to continued payment of premium, these coverages can be continued through June 30, 2020, while employees are not working due to a partial or full furlough or temporary layoff occurring on or after March 1, 2020.
- Will The Standard reinstate employees’ coverage when employees regain eligibility and return to work?
For employees who return to work within 12 months as of March 1, 2020, and become covered again within 30 days of returning, any coverage that was in effect when the employees’ work hours were reduced will be reinstated for both the employees and their dependents.
Any coverage requirements (e.g., preexisting condition for Long Term Disability, two-year suicide exclusion for Life, late enrollment penalty for Dental insurance, etc.) that were not fully met when the employees’ work hours were reduced will continue to apply until the balance of the requirement period is served. Evidence of Insurability requirements for late enrollments will also apply.
Employees who return to work after March 1, 2021, and employees who were not insured prior to the reduction in the employee’s work hours, may become insured as a new employee.
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We are actively monitoring the changing situation related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and would like to share a few updates with you around ensuring the safety of our employees and our commitment to serving clients.
As a result, providing the premium is paid, we are extending our period of continuation to the earlier of:
- 90 days, or
- the end of the period when a person is unable to work, is working reduced hours, or is not working from their usual work location
Continuation is available for the period of March 13, 2020 until September 1, 2020 and should be applied uniformly at the employer level and not by individual selection.
Continuation of insurance benefits will be allowed due to:
- Reduction of work hours resulting in an eligible and insured individual becoming ineligible for coverage;
- Temporary furlough or leave of absence;
- Temporary layoff;
- Quarantine without medical necessity
Premium Grace Periods
The standard policy grace period will be extended for another 30 days, if needed, on all coverages.
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Sources: Sun Life
Sources: Teladoc
As the COVID-19 virus continues to create concern and uncertainty within the US self-insurance market, we at Tokio Marine HCC – Stop Loss Group (“TMHCC”) are standing by our motto of being a “Good Company”. We know our stop loss policyholders and their advisors are exploring ways of keeping plan participants safe and providing them with coverage options that may be outside their normal suite of benefits.
We have also been exploring these options and examining their consequences in light of their stop loss coverage, so effective immediately TMHCC will honor the following actions that our policyholders decide to take in response to the virus.
- Waiver of deductibles, co-pays and cost sharing on covered participants for COVID-19 testing – We will allow these costs to apply under the stop loss coverage. No prior notification to TMHCC is required.
- Waiver of cost sharing for virtual visits or telemedicine – We will allow these costs to apply under the stop loss coverage. No prior notification to TMHCC is required.
- Early refills of medication to ensure participants have a 30-day supply – We will allow these additional costs to apply under the stop loss coverage. No prior notification to TMHCC is required.
Like you, we are looking forward to returning to a sense of normalcy and until then, we hope these accommodations help ease our policyholders’ concerns with their stop loss.
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Sources: Tokio Marine
We're Here to Help.
The past several weeks have certainly tested us all. As we continue to monitor ongoing developments related to the coronavirus (COVID-19), please know that nothing will compromise our commitment to take care of customers and the things you trust us to insure. We have robust business continuity plans in place to provide exceptional, uninterrupted service – all while helping our customers and employees stay safe.
Taking Care of Our Customers
Travelers is offering billing support to its customers who are financially affected by the actions being taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Should you have questions on setting up special billing arrangements, please contact us at the following numbers:
- For Personal Insurance: 1-800-842-5075
- For Business Insurance or Bond & Specialty Insurance: 1-800-252-2268
We are committed to responding to our customers’ claim needs with speed, compassion, integrity and professionalism. You can make a claim at any time by visiting our claim center. We are adjusting our inspection process by leveraging our extensive inventory of virtual tools and taking extra precautions if an in-person inspection is needed.
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Sources: Travelers Insurance
The group’s plan designs and the member’s enrollments will dictate the services available at termination.
- For members enrolled in plans with a MEC option they will be offered COBRA for the MEC +Limited Benefits.
- For members enrolled in plans with just limited benefits Continuation of Coverage (COC) is available. For specific situations give us a call as other options related to leave of absence or furlough may be available.
Sources: Ternian
UMR is working to ensure we are available to support you during this time. Here is general information about how you can best cope with COVID-19. For more specific information about your plan, log into your member portal or call the phone number on your member ID card.
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Sources: UMR
UFG Insurance takes pride in offering simple solutions for complex times. As our entire country unites to fight the novel COVID-19 pandemic, times certainly don’t get much more complex than they are today.
During this unprecedented health crisis, be assured of one simple truth: We’re here for our customers.
Policyholders facing financial hardships caused by steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 are encouraged to call our billing office at 800-637-6309 to start a conversation. Our teams are closely monitoring Department of Insurance (DOI) regulatory updates that may offer additional support.
UFG is built upon fundamentals of trust, keeping promises and treating people the right way. That foundation never waivers, especially in trying times like these that unite us all. Thank you for entrusting us to protect what matters most to you.
Sources: United Fire Group
If there are layoffs that funnel into COBRA/Continuation from the employer where the employee is responsible for the full premium our standard layoff/rehire provision where the member doesn’t need to satisfy a waiting period is 6 months from layoff.
Employees remain eligible for coverage if they remain an active employee during periods of temporary layoffs and/or reduction in hours as a result. UHC is reliant on Employers to notify us of employment status of their employees. If you choose to pay for their coverage, then you would not notify us of a coverage change.
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Sources: United HealthCare
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Sources: Voya Financial
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Important health plan benefit considerations for coronavirus (COVID-19)
At Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, our top priority is the health and well-being of the members and employers we serve. In the wake of coronavirus (COVID-19), Wellmark announced we are taking the following steps to help our commercially-insured and Medicare members:
- Waiving prior authorization processes. Wellmark will waive prior authorization processes for covered services related to COVID-19 to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time and location.
- Covering diagnostic tests for COVID-19. Members will have no cost-share for appropriate testing to establish the diagnosis of COVID-19.
- Increasing access to prescription medications. Wellmark prescription drug benefit plans will allow for early refill and we encourage the use of 90-day retail and mail-order benefits. We also will ensure formulary flexibility if there are medication shortages or other access issues. Members will not be responsible for any additional charges if they receive a non-formulary medication as a result of a shortage.
- Offering virtual health care visits and 24/7 help. We are encouraging our members to take advantage of virtual visits to avoid the spread of germs. Members also have access to Wellmark’s BeWell 24/7SM service which connects members to real people who can help with a variety of health-related concerns 24/7.
We will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19
Wellmark continues to use the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), and South Dakota Health Department as our official sources of information. For the latest U.S. impacts of COVID-19, please see the data reported by the CDC.
To learn more about Wellmark’s response to coronavirus, please visit Wellmark.com/coronavirus.
Frequently asked questions
- Does my self-funded health plan cover COVID-19 testing?
COVID-19 diagnostic tests have been declared essential health benefits by Health and Human Services (HHS). Wellmark’s recommendation is to waive the members’ cost-share for appropriate diagnostic testing. This means there will be no out-of-pocket costs, including copays, deductibles, and coinsurance. We will also ensure appropriate patient testing is done in close coordination with federal, state and public health authorities.
Clarification regarding potential Health Savings Account impact is being researched and will be communicated once available.
- Can my employees get prescriptions early or receive a larger supply?
Wellmark will waive early refill limits on 30-day prescription maintenance medications (consistent with members’ benefit plans). We also will ensure formulary flexibility if there are medication shortages or other access issues. Members will not be liable for any additional charges if they receive a non-formulary medication as a result of a shortage of their current medication.
- Does Wellmark cover any quarantine-related expenses?
The benefit plan does not cover quarantine costs for COVID-19. However, medical-related expenses will be covered if needed during quarantine.
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Sources: Wellmark