Still have questions? We have answers. Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about how we're addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.
What are the different types of COVID-19 tests?
There are two kinds of tests:
- A diagnostic test, which determines if a person has an active COVID-19 infection. A diagnostic test includes at-home tests.
- An antibody test, which determines if a person already had a COVID-19 infection. So, the person may have some level of immunity.
How accurate are the tests?
Diagnostic tests are generally considered accurate if given by a clinician within five to 10 days after the initial infection. Antibody tests are generally considered accurate if given by a clinician seven or more days after COVID-19 symptoms begin.
You should talk with your health care provider to learn which test may be right for you and what the results mean.
What happens during a COVID-19 diagnostic test?
The test involves inserting a swab through the back of the nasal passage to detect genetic material specific for the virus.
A positive result confirms the presence of the virus that causes a COVID-19 infection. A negative result means that the virus wasn't detected at the level needed to confirm infection. It does not rule out infection.
Can you tell me more about at-home, COVID-19 diagnostic tests?
At-home tests are becoming more widely available. However, the accuracy of these tests is still uncertain, because they rely on how well each person performs the swabbing to get a good sample of the virus. If it's not done properly, it may produce a negative result (a false-negative) in a person who is contagious with the virus.
We recommend you contact and work closely with your health care provider to determine which type of test, if any, is best for you.
Will Blue Cross cover a test for me if I don't have symptoms?
Yes, if a health care provider* orders an FDA-approved test and believes that the test is medically necessary**.
You should talk with your doctor about the need for a test if you don't have symptoms, or if you haven't been exposed. The CDC doesn't prioritize testing asymptomatic, low-risk or non-exposed individuals.
Will you cover multiple tests for the same person?
Yes, if a health care provider* determines that multiple tests are medically necessary**, and they're approved by the FDA.
Do you cover tests from drive-through sites? And is cost sharing waived for those, too?
Yes, if it's FDA-approved and a health care provider* thinks it's medically necessary**.
Will I be charged for a COVID-19 test offered at certain locations?
Several counties and municipalities are offering COVID-19 tests for community residents. They're covering the cost of tests, so your health plan shouldn't be billed.
We recommend you check with these sites before going for a test, as each site may have different requirements regarding appointments, physician orders, symptoms and residence.
I received a bill for COVID-19 testing. What should I do?
Please call the customer service number on the back of your ID card.
What if I go to a testing facility but I don't get a test? Will I get a bill?
It depends on the services received and diagnosis recorded on the claim if you'll get a bill for your visit. If it's a COVID-19 diagnosis, you won't be responsible for any cost share.
I'm a BCN member. Can only my primary care physician order a COVID-19 test?
Not necessarily, but you do need an order from a health care provider*.
Do you cover workplace screening tests for COVID-19?
No, Blue Cross doesn't cover the cost of workplace or occupational screening tests for COVID-19. However, we do cover the cost of testing if a health care provider* orders an FDA-approved test and determines that the test is medically necessary**.
Do you cover other screening tests for COVID-19?
No, Blue Cross doesn't cover the cost of other screening tests for COVID-19, such as testing to participate in sports or admission to the armed services, educational institution, workplace or residential facility. However, we do cover the cost of testing if a health care provider* orders an FDA-approved test and determines that the test is medically necessary**.
*A health care provider should be a licensed physician, pharmacist or clinician operating within the scope of their license. They should use their best judgment in accordance with accepted standards of medical practice. This is in keeping with the Families First Act and CARES Act of 2020.
**Test orders must show medical necessity and the ordering provider should have resources to act on test results. This is in keeping with the Families First Act and CARES Act of 2020.
What can you tell me about a COVID-19 vaccine?
The FDA has approved vaccines from Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for emergency use. Distribution across the country is underway. The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are distributed in two doses, administered a few weeks apart. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is delivered in one dose.
Do I need both doses of the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes. This will give you the best protection against COVID-19. The CDC and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services both agree it's important to get the second dose.
The second dose must be from the same vaccine manufacturer as your first dose. If you can, it would be best to follow up with the same provider who gave you your first shot.
How can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?
You can get one at your county health department, hospital or pharmacy. Other civic locations are distributing vaccines, too.
At a county health department. Visit the State of Michigan website. Then, find your county health department and make an appointment. Please note: The government has said that demand exceeds the current supply. So, you may not be able to make an appointment with the health department right away. If that's the case, keep checking back as more vaccines become available.
At a local hospital. Many hospital systems are providing the vaccine by appointment for their patients. Each is notifying patients in its own way. Follow their instructions to make an appointment with them.
At a nearby pharmacy. Some pharmacies have also started the appointment process, or intend to soon. Check with your local pharmacy about their vaccine plans.
No matter where you decide to go, check to see what identification you'll need to bring. For example, some sites may want you to bring your government-issued, red, white and blue Medicare ID card and your Blue Cross ID card. If you're not sure, it may be best to bring both.
How much will a COVID-19 vaccine cost me?
You won't have to pay anything to get the vaccine. We're covering the cost to administer it, so our members have an opportunity to get vaccinated.
Are the COVID-19 vaccines safe?
The FDA says that it puts every vaccine or drug through rigorous testing. It only releases those that it deems safe. Ask your physician about the benefits of the vaccine. You can also learn more by visiting the CDC or State of Michigan website.
How long does it take for a COVID-19 vaccine to work?
About two weeks after the second dose of a two-dose vaccine, or two weeks after a one-dose vaccine. You can learn more by checking out the CDC's vaccine information.
Will I need a different COVID-19 vaccine for the Delta variant or other variants?
Not if you're fully vaccinated, according to the CDC and FDA.
Is it true that the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine may require a booster shot?
Potentially. Keep in mind, a booster shot is not an entirely different vaccine. It's another dose of the same vaccine you already had.
Pfizer saw the possible need for a booster as part of the vaccine's initial trials. The company noted that about six months after the second dose, antibodies that people developed started to decrease. However, the booster shot still needs more clinical trials and a separate emergency use authorization from the FDA before it would be available. We'll continue to keep you updated as we learn more.
While this is being researched and developed, it's important to remember that COVID-19 vaccines are extremely effective in preventing hospitalizations and serious illness. So, it's critical that you get fully vaccinated as soon as possible.
Will the COVID-19 vaccine stop you from spreading the virus?
According to the CDC, early data shows that vaccines are preventing people with no symptoms from spreading COVID-19. However, the organization is still gathering information.
When can I get the vaccine if I have COVID-19?
You should wait until you’re recovered from COVID-19 and done with your quarantine period. If you have further questions about this, please check with your doctor.
Can doctors prescribe medications during a telehealth visit?
Yes, doctors who offer telehealth services can prescribe medications. If you get your care through Blue Cross Online Visits, the doctor will submit your prescription to your pharmacy of choice.
Is physical, occupational and speech therapy included in telehealth visits?
Yes, but costs apply per your plan's benefits. You should work with your doctor to develop a plan for online therapy.
How can I pay my premium bill if there are no more walk-in centers?
That depends on your plan type.
If you have an individual plan, you can pay online, by phone or make payments at any Moneygram location in the state. You can also mail your payment to us. See individual plan mailing addresses.
Please note: If you have a Medicare Advantage PPO plan or a Prescription BlueSM PDP plan, you'll need to pay by mail. See Medicare mailing addresses.
You can pay:
- Online. Subscribers can log in, look for "Pay your premium" and select "Pay now."
- By phone. You can call the number on the back of your Blue Cross ID card.
- By mail. Simply follow the instructions on your bill to send us your payment.
What if I can't pay my premium bill?
You can always call the number on the back of your ID card if you have questions or concerns.
I've lost my job because of the coronavirus. What happens to my coverage?
If you had coverage through your employer, you can check with them about COBRA.
We also may be able to help you continue your coverage or move into a new plan. We can check to see if you qualify for federal subsidies, too.
- To learn more:
- Blue Cross Medicare Advantage members, call 1-888-803-4960.
- BCN Medicare Advantage members, call 1-800-431-1059.
- All other members, call 1-877‐610‐2583.
Are there any medications currently being used for COVID-19 treatment?
On May 1, 2020, remdesivir became the first fully FDA-approved treatment for COVID-19 for hospitalized patients. The drug already was being used under an emergency order for hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19.
On February 9, 2021, the FDA granted emergency authorization use status to a monoclonal antibody treatment. It's a combination of experimental drugs, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, administered together to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 infections. It's approved for people at risk of progressing to severe cases, but it's not approved for patients who are already hospitalized or receiving oxygen therapy.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will continue to monitor medications for COVID-19 and keep you up-to-date.
The prior authorization for my drug is about to expire. What should I do?
We want to make sure you have access to the medication you need. For the most part, if your drug's prior authorization expires between March 1 and June 1, we'll extend it until August 1. Some drugs aren't eligible for the extension, like Hepatitis C treatment drugs, gene therapy drugs and a few others. In those cases, we'll let you know by mail if we need a prior authorization from your doctor.
What about prescription exceptions?
We have several processes in place to help you in the event of an emergency or disaster situation. Our pharmacy providers know our guidelines to help you get your prescriptions in an emergency.
These emergency guidelines allow network pharmacies to bill a claim electronically and process it in real time.
Are there any steps being put in place for specialty pharmacy?
If you're interested in receiving your specialty medication through free mail delivery, you can transfer your prescription to AllianceRx Walgreens Prime. For more information, call them at 1-855-244-2555.
Where can I find additional resources if I'm feeling anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic?
You can see resources including support options on our mental health site, or check out our blog.
Do I need a prior authorization for COVID-19 lab testing or services?
No. We're waiving prior authorizations for testing, and services related to testing. You also won't need one for a hospital stay that's due to COVID-19.
What is the Families First Coronavirus Response Act?
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act is a new law. It mandates that we cover and waive cost-sharing for test-related items and services during provider, urgent care and ER visits when they result in an order, or administration of, a COVID-19 lab test. As we continue to assess the requirements, more information may be coming.
What is the CARES Act and how does it impact me?
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security, or CARES Act, is a $2 trillion federal coronavirus response package that was recently signed into law.
- The CARES Act states:
- High deductible health plans must cover telehealth services before the deductible.
- Individual and group health plans must cover COVID-19 testing and vaccines.
- Patients can use funds in Health Savings Accounts, Health Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Reimbursement Arrangements to pay for over-the-counter drugs without a prescription and for menstrual care products.
I'm a UAW member who's not yet on Medicare. What communications have you sent me about COVID-19?
Based on your communications preferences, you may have received emails or text messages. To see the communications that we sent you, download our zip file.
You can update your communication preferences anytime by logging in to your member account, choosing Account Settings, then Communication Preferences.
