At the March 10, 2020 meeting at the White House with the CEOs of major health insurance companies aimed at encouraging people to get tested by removing cost barriers, Vice President Mike Pence presented this information for dealing with the coronavirus. 

“I'm pleased to report that as you requested, Mr. President, that all the insurance companies here, either today, or before today, have agreed to waive all copays on coronavirus testing, and extend coverage for coronavirus treatment in all of their benefit plans,” Pence said while seated next to President Trump and the insurance CEOs. 

The leaders of major health insurers, including UnitedHealth Group, Anthem, Cigna, Humana, Aetna and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association were at the meeting, according to the White House. 

Pence said the insurers had agreed to cover telemedicine to allow people to speak to their doctors remotely about the coronavirus. He also said they had agreed to “no surprise billing.”

The white house, CDC and WHO have strongly encouraged that patients use telehealth to be screened for COVID-19 and receive treatment after testing to encourage social distancing and reduce exposure for healthy patients. 

What is the coronavirus (COVID-19)?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus that was first identified in China. On March 11, the World Health Organization declared the rapidly spreading coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. It is contagious and includes symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

How do I know if I have coronavirus or just a cold?

Coronavirus and the flu symptoms can be similar, so it is always important to notify a healthcare provider if you are feeling sick. However, coronavirus does present differently than a common cold or another respiratory infection. 

How is coronavirus spread?

The virus is airborne and spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing. It can also be spread through infected surfaces or objects. You may be at greater risk if you have recently lived in or traveled to regions where there are current outbreaks or if you come into contact with someone who has the virus.

What do I do if I notice symptoms?

Coronavirus is highly contagious, and can spread quickly. You are encouraged to stay home until you are directed by a healthcare provider. For non-life threatening symptoms, contact your primary care provider to notify them of your symptoms. If possible, avoid urgent care centers and emergency rooms for coronavirus symptoms to limit your contact with others. 

Can I stay home to be screened? 

Yes! Telehealth is a virtual care option that allows you to stay at home to be screened for coronavirus, allowing you to receive quality clinical guidance without going to your doctors office or ER, which can carry germs. You still should always inform your primary care office of any symptoms. 

Okay, but what is telehealth? 

Telehealth is a digital way to consult a healthcare provider to screen, monitor and advise treatment for medical conditions using your cell phone or computer. To see a certified clinician using telehealth, patients enter general medical information, health insurance and a description of symptoms in an easy questionnaire-style format. Then, patients communicate with a provider via a video chat, phone call or even an instant-message style chat. Most telehealth programs are available 24/7, so you do not need to wait until your doctor’s office opens to ask for clinical guidance.

Will I get a test or treatment through telehealth?

No, but providers can help answer your questions about the disease, evaluate your risk and symptoms, and advise you on what to do next. . If you have mild symptoms or have been instructed quarantine, telehealth allows you to video chat with your provider to monitor and treat your symptoms. Telehealth providers are trained on the local and state protocols, and stay up-to-date on any changes to testing or management of the disease. 

How do I get a virtual appointment using telehealth?

You can access a telehealth service simply via a computer or a cell phone to talk with a healthcare provider quickly and anytime without the wait times of an ER or the need to schedule an appointment. To sign up for a visit, enter your name, basic health information, and your insurance information. Most private and governmental health insurance companies are offering telehealth screening for coronavirus free of charge, but you will be informed of any minimal charge before you enter your appointment. Additionally, during this crisis, many health insurance companies are waiving fees for other general urgent care appointments (not coronavirus), to prevent exposure, encourage social distancing and limit crowding in urgent care and emergency rooms. 

There are many different types of telehealth services. Here are some examples, and links to the coronavirus-specific telehealth service. 

An easy way to start is to complete a short assessment by going to one of these sites.

1.  Doctor OnDemand: A 24/7 online and mobile telehealth service allows you to take on online coronavirus assessment, which will inform you of your risk, recommended next steps for screening and treatment, and immediately connect you with a provider, if you choose.  This is a great resource if you do not have a primary care provider or you are unable to reach a physician to assess your symptoms and risk.  Click here

2. Ro: A 24/7 online resource hub and free assessment. If telehealth treatment is required, you will be routed to a telehealth provider for a free consultation.  Click here

3. Teladoc: A 24/7 online and mobile telehealth service that will connect you with a provider immediately.  Click here

Resources:

• https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/486816-pence-major-health-insurers-have-agreed-to-waive-copays-for-coronavirus

• https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/14/politics/telehealth-us-federal-response-coronavirus/index.html

• https://www.healthvermont.gov/response/infectious-disease/2019-novel-coronavirus.

• https://www.bmhvt.org/coronavirus/
  

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