Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)

Medical Plan Updates: 05/24/2021

 

Anthem Blue Cross (Anthem)

  • Anthem provided members four things to know about the COVID-19 vaccines:
    • The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and highly effective.
      • The vaccines have proven to be up to 95% effective in protecting against COVID-19
    • Members do not pay anything to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
      • Anthem covers the cost of getting the vaccine. Regardless of the doctor or healthcare facility you visit, your out-of-pocket cost will be zero
    • Members can easily find a vaccination site near them.
      • Members can visit vaccinefinder.org to search for a COVID-19 vaccination site and schedule an appointment
    • Common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines are signs that the body’s immune system is working.
      • Side effects may include pain and swelling near the injection site, feeling tired, or having chills and a fever. These side effects are expected and usually last a day or two.

 

 UnitedHealthCare (UHC)

  • UHC reminded members of the protection COVID-19 vaccines provide:
    • While the vaccines may help protect from the virus, it is not yet known if vaccinated people can still give the virus to others
    • The duration of protection against the virus is currently unknown
  • The current COVID-19 vaccines have been authorized for use for the following ages:
    • Pfizer – individuals aged 12 and older
  • Moderna – individuals aged 18 and older
    • Janssen – individuals aged 18 and older; however, women under 50 should be aware of the rare risk of blood clots with low platelets
  • UHC is providing support to members at high-risk for severe illness from the COVID-19 virus in three ways:
    • Encouragement via email or telephone, including the vaccine resource locator to help members find vaccination providers. UHC has transportation and scheduling programs available for members aged 65 and older
    • Notification and clinical support, through the UHC care management program
    • Notification and scheduling support, through the UHC customer service advocates
  • Members may have access to a digital COVID-19 vaccination record within their online UHC member account and the UHC mobile app. The digital record is not intended to replace the official COVID-19 vaccination record card.
    • At this time, UHC does not have a COVID-19 vaccination record for all members, given the different vaccination sites and resulting incomplete data. However, beginning in June, members may choose to self-report their vaccination using their digital record, within their online UHC member account.

 

Kaiser Permanente: No new updates

Cigna: No new updates

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The Department of Human Resources (DHR) works closely with the County-sponsored medical plans available to our employees, and receives regular updates concerning the COVID-19 crisis.  Watch this page for weekly news, as well as any urgent updates on how to get treatment and new recommendations concerning social distancing, self-quarantine, and more.