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BCBS Announces Full Coverage of Telehealth Services

Posted 3/20/20 (Fri)

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association President and CEO, Scott Serota issued the following statement announcing full coverage of telehealth services for members.

“The safety and security of our members – and of all Americans – remains our paramount priority during these unprecedented times. On Thursday, March 19, Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) companies announced a new policy regarding telehealth services that ensures members have swift access to the care needed to get and stay healthy – at no cost to them.

All 36 independently-operated BCBS companies and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program® (FEP®) are expanding coverage for telehealth services for the next 90 days. The expanded coverage includes waiving cost-sharing for telehealth services for fully-insured members and applies to in network telehealth providers who are providing appropriate medical services.

BCBS said in a statement that the company advocates for physician and health system adoption of social distancing-encouraged capabilities such as video, chat and/or e-visits. 

Steps previously taken by BCBS companies include: covering full costs of medically necessary diagnostic tests related to COVID-19, waiving of prior authorizations for diagnostic tests and covered services for members if diagnosed with COVID-19, increased access to prescription medications, and expanded access to telehealth and nurse/provider hotlines.

The BCBS Association encourages you to contact your in-state BCBS plan for a full understanding of breadth of services since coverage may vary.

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