Bulletins

Humana has identified two options for members to purchase over-the-counter (OTC), FDA-approved COVID-19 diagnostic kits to comply with the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) directive released last week. The DOL requirement took effect January 15.

Claim form should be submitted providing test purchase date and cost

UnitedHealthcare (UHC) has released information on how UHC members can obtain over-the-counter (OTC), FDA-approved COVID-19 diagnostic kits to comply with the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) directive released last week. The DOL requirement took effect January 15.UHC has established a preferred...

Qualified testing remains at $0 cost-share; member responsible for cost of non-qualified testing

Given the National Public Health Emergency has been extended to October 23, 2020, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) will maintain current COVID-19 policies through October 23:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) established new assistance programs and COVID-19 relief policy extensions to aid employer groups during the outbreak.

In response to IRS guidance issued in 2019, Aetna will expand coverage for four additional preventive care services covered by a qualified high deductible health plan (QHDHP) before meeting a deductible. The preventive services will also apply to all plans that apply a deductible to the services...

Effective July 1, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) will utilize an updated prescription drug list. The updates affect Blue-Care (HMO), BlueSelect Plus (PPO), Preferred-Care (PPO) and Preferred-Care Blue (PPO) plan members. However, there may be group-specific exclusions.

Effective July 1, 2020, Aetna will change the formulary drug list for its Value Plus and Advanced Control-Aetna pharmacy plans. The Aetna Standard formulary for self-insured members remains unchanged. Aetna reviews and changes drug lists quarterly.

As confirmed coronavirus cases hit the Kansas City area, health insurance carriers are releasing provisions to help protect and care for their members. Below is a list of specific actions taken by major carriers.