Coverage changes for COVID-19 diagnostic testing

Information about the 2019 novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is now headline news. This new strain of viral respiratory illness was first identified in Wuhan, China, but has since spread to other areas of the world, including the United States. Scientists are working to better understand the virus and answer questions about its severity and duration and how easily it can be transmitted between people.

Coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic testing
Medica has announced a coverage change related to the diagnostic testing for COVID-19 that follow guidelines issued through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and state health departments. Medica will waive co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles related to COVID-19 testing for all fully insured group, individual and Medicare members. Self-insured employers will have an opportunity to also waive fees related to the testing of COVID-19. This change is effective immediately.

To help limit the spread of COVID-19, Medica provides coverage for virtual care or telehealth services, often a more convenient way to access health care services from home. When appropriate, members are encouraged to utilize virtual care benefits.

The health and well-being of members is a priority and Medica will continue to monitor the status of COVID-19 and its impact on our members.

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New form of a common virus
"Coronavirus is the name of a family of viruses that we've known about for a long time. In fact, a form of it causes about 30% of cases of the common cold. But this strain is new and there is still much to learn about it," explained John Piatkowski, M.D., Medica's Senior Medical Director.

How to protect yourself
"The best defense against any type of viral illness is to avoid being exposed to it. The infectious disease experts who are tracking coronavirus recommend the same everyday precautions you already use to avoid catching a cold or the flu," said Dr. Piatkowski. These include:

Wash your hands thoroughly - and often - with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay at home when you are sick.

Learn more
Both the CDC and MDH offer helpful information on COVID-19 and related viral illnesses:

CDC Coronavirus Website
CDC Travel Health Notices
MDH Coronavirus Website

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