COVID-19 News and Updates
Maximizing efficient, high quality COVID-19 screenings
Identifying the most appropriate COVID-19 testing codes, testing sites and type of test to use can be confusing. The guidance here can make it easier for you to refer your patients to high-quality, lower-cost COVID-19 testing sites, find Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem)-contracted laboratories and identify the proper CPT® codes to use.
COVID-19 update: Suspension of select prior authorization rules and significant policy adjustments in response to unprecedented demands on health care providers (updated December 2, 2020)
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) recognizes the intense demands facing doctors, hospitals and all health care providers in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, unless otherwise required under state and federal mandates as detailed below, Anthem is making adjustments to assist providers in caring for members.
COVID-19 information from Anthem – Updated October 1, 2020
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) is closely monitoring COVID-19 developments and how the novel coronavirus will impact our customers and provider partners.
HHS announces additional distributions from the Provider Relief Fund to eligible Medicaid and CHIP providers (6/15/2020)
On June 9, 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), announced additional distributions from the Provider Relief Fund to eligible Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) providers that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs. HHS is also announcing an additional distribution of Provider Relief Funds to safety net hospitals.
COVID-19 update: Guidance for telehealth/telephonic care for behavioral health services (June 9, 2020)
Anthem is closely monitoring COVID-19 developments and what it means for our customers and our health care provider partners. Our clinical team is actively monitoring external queries and reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help us determine what action is necessary on our part. We have made changes to how behavioral health providers can use and be compensated for telehealth (audio + video) and telephonic-only care with their patients.
COVID-19 information from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) is closely monitoring COVID-19 developments and how the novel coronavirus will impact our customers and provider partners.
COVID-19 update: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield suspends select prior authorization rules
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) recognizes the intense demands facing doctors, hospitals and all health care providers in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, unless otherwise required under state and federal mandates, Anthem health plans will suspend select prior authorization (PA) requirements, member cost sharing, claims review and handling protocols to allow health care providers to focus on caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Listen now! Webinar recording available from Anthem BlueCross and BlueShield for network providers on SBA loans and other federal relief programs in response to COVID-19
We are committed to helping care providers learn how you can secure resources to support yourselves and your business during the COVID-19 crisis. On April 30, 2020, we hosted a webinar to share information and resources with network providers regarding opportunities to access loans through the U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) and other federal programs in response to the economic impact of COVID-19 on care providers that are also small employers.
Resources supporting our providers during COVID-19
Supporting providers and those who deliver care to our members is our top concern during the COVID-19 health emergency. Navigating the rapidly changing information is especially important to us so you can focus on what’s important – patient care.
Federal resources available for health care providers and employers in the federal CARES Act
Anthem, Inc. advocated for Congress to provide sufficient funding for hospitals to be able to address those in need of care, and we strongly support federal and state efforts to address the financial needs of care providers. To help care providers navigate the resources available to them, we complied information on programs that could deliver additional financial relief during this crisis.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield waives cost share for COVID-19 treatment
Anthem announced that effective April 1, 2020, we will expand coverage for our members undergoing treatment related to COVID-19 diagnosis. The expansion covers the waiver of cost shares for COVID-19 treatment received through December 31, 2020.
