BlueCross BlueShield Tennessee covering COVID-19 costs, telehealth appointments
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is covering the full treatment cost for COVID-19, including testing, treatment and hospitalizations and free telehealth.
The company previously announced its offering to cover COVID-19 expenses through May 31. Now BlueCross BlueShield is also offering more low-cost or free services in the wake of the pandemic:
- Waiving member costs for any appropriate FDA-aligned test
- Allowing early prescription refills and 90-day prescriptions to avoid increased risk of exposure
- Expanding access to telehealth services by making PhysicianNow visits available at no cost and by covering virtual visits with other network providers for many services
"The BlueCross decision makes it the first major insurer to embrace telehealth for the long-term after the dramatic expansion of these services during the COVID-19 pandemic, a move the company said aligns with other steps it has taken to improve access to primary care," a news release from BlueCross BlueShield said.
Members won't be responsible for an out-of-pocket costs during this time, relating to COVID-19.
“As part of our mission, our first priority is the health of our members and the communities we serve,” said JD Hickey, M.D., president and CEO. “And since the COVID-19 pandemic is unlike anything our members have faced in recent memory, we want to make sure we remove any barriers to receiving the care they need.”
BlueCross is also giving back with a $3.25 million donation to food banks across the state.
