Medicare Advantage COVID-19 Coverage
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19.
Wondering if you should get vaccinated? Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes! Most people in the United States are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Multiple vaccines have been authorized by the FDA and CDC. All of which are proven to protect people from severe illness and death from COVID-19.
Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Your safety was a huge factor when the vaccines were developed. And each vaccine has undergone stringent clinical trials, showing positive results across diverse groups of people.
How much will the vaccine cost?
CareFirst members will pay $0 for any authorized vaccine, regardless of manufacturer.
The United States government is covering the cost of the shot, so that more people can get the vaccine, whether they’re insured or not. Your doctor may ask for insurance information, but you will not get a bill.
How do I schedule an appointment for vaccination?
You can schedule your vaccination appointment through Maryland’s GoVAX site. It’s easy and quick.
Schedule my vaccine.
Who is eligible for a COVID-19 booster?
Boosters are important. They help prevent serious illness or death from COVID-19. Anyone 5 years and older can get a COVID-19 booster.
The most up-to-date booster approvals are on the CDC’s website. You can get a different brand of vaccine as a booster than you did for your primary series.
Want more information on the vaccine?
We know it’s important to have all the information you need to decide what’s right for you.
Learn more about the vaccine.
For answers to frequently asked questions about the vaccines, information about the science behind them and more, visit our COVID-19 webpage.
Please note, there has been an increase in COVID-19 related scams promising access to the vaccine in exchange for money or personal information. These tips can help you recognize, avoid and report COVID-19 vaccine scams.
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Medicare Advantage Coverage During COVID-19
With all the uncertainty, it’s important that you know we’re here for you. Significant strain on healthcare systems across the U.S. mean it’s more important than ever to understand how to get care when you need it. We’re working to make sure that there are few barriers to important COVID-19 testing and treatment. See the chart below for updates to your CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Medicare Advantage plan benefits:
| CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) Medicare Advantage Coverage | |
|---|---|
| COVID Testing |
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield Medicare Advantage will cover diagnostic COVID-19 testing with no cost for members. Certain at-home tests administered by trained medical personnel may be subject to additional cost. People may also access free or affordably priced testing in the community. A list of community-based testing sites can be found here. |
| COVID Treatment |
Effective January 1, 2022, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield will no longer waive cost sharing (copayments and coinsurance costs) for COVID-19 treatment for Medicare Advantage plan members diagnosed with COVID-19. Providers may collect the appropriate member cost share (copayment and coinsurance) for treatment rendered on and after January 1, 2022. |
| Telehealth visits |
Members have access to telehealth services with in-network primary care providers (PCPs), specialists, mental health providers and more. The same cost share fees that apply to in-person appointments also apply to these services. Members can also enjoy expanded telehealth coverage through the CareFirst Video Visit app for urgent care services and behavioral health needs. The same cost share fees that apply to in-person appointments also apply to virtual telehealth. Members also have access to a no-cost 24-Hour Nurse Line for any questions: 833-968-1773. |
| Vaccination |
The COVID-19 vaccine and administration will be no cost for members. |
| Prior Authorizations |
Prior authorizations are not required for COVID-19 testing or treatment. |
| Extended Supplies of Medication |
Members can request a 90-day (3-month) supply of covered Part D prescription drugs. Please contact our pharmacy member services team at 888-970-0917 for more info. |