Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)

Medical Plan Updates: 8/31/2020

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  • CDC issued a checklist of guidelines and best practices for non-traditional (satellite/temporary/off-site) vaccination clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Information included vaccine shipment, transport, storage, handling, preparation, administration, and documentation
    • Specifically, clinics were provided a checklist of items to address both prior to the clinic opening and while it is operating, to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19

 

Anthem Blue Cross (Anthem)

  • Anthem provided members with following information to assist with their understanding of antibody testing:
    • Antibody tests are blood tests that help determine if you have already had a virus or disease, such as COVID-19
      • Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm or with a prick of your finger. The blood sample is then tested in a lab to detect antibodies
    • Antibody tests cannot detect if you are currently infected with COVID-19
    • Antibody testing is not recommended for most people and testing can produce incorrect results
      • You may test negative for COVID-19 antibodies if: 1) You have never had it; 2) You still have it, and your body has not developed antibodies yet; or 3) You were infected, but never developed antibodies
      • You may test positive for COVID-19 antibodies if: 1) The virus you had is in the same coronavirus family, but not from the same virus that causes COVID-19; or 2) You had the virus, but never showed symptoms of COVID-19
    • Researchers are currently studying how COVID-19 antibodies in blood plasma may help boost a person’s ability to fight off the virus or help those with serious complications

 

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

  • UHC has expanded their provider access to telehealth.
    • Through October 22, 2020, all eligible network medical providers, who have the ability to, and want to, connect with their patients through virtual care (video conferencing or audio only) can do so.

 

Cigna

  • No new updates

 

Kaiser Permanente

  • No updates provided

   

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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.