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We're here for you. Now more than ever.

How Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
is responding to the coronavirus (COVID-19)

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network, we're committed to caring for Michigan and everyone who calls it home – like we've done for 81 years. We're proud of what we've done to support our members, customers and communities throughout this pandemic. Learn more about our response to COVID-19 (PDF).

As we continue to navigate this together, you can still count on us to be your trusted advisor. A partner for care. A concerned employer. And a committed member of the community.

BCBSM ID Card

We're in this together

The world may feel different now, but we're doing what we can to help you feel more secure. That includes offering no-cost care options, so you can focus on your health, instead of worrying about copays and deductibles. We've also put together the following information to answer questions you might have. If you need more help, please don't hesitate to let us know. You can reach us by calling the number on the back of your Blue Cross ID card.

Member

$0 COVID-19 vaccine – prepare, protect, prevent

Michigan residents age 16 and up are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. As a Blue Cross member, you won't have to pay anything to get it. This is part of our commitment to keep our Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network members safe.

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine by:
Finding a location through this Vaccine Finder website. It’s joint effort between the Centers for Disease Control and other entities. Just put in your ZIP code and you’ll see vaccine locations near you, based on available data.
Making an appointment with your county health department. Learn more on the State of Michigan website. The state’s updating the site regularly.
Members living outside of Michigan should contact their state's health department or use the Vaccine Finder site.
Have more questions about the vaccines? Check out our vaccine FAQ for more information.

Care Options for COVID-19

We offer different ways for you to see a health care professional from the comfort of your home, so you can keep yourself and others safe.

Primary Care Physician

Primary Care Physician

If you don't have a primary doctor yet, log in to your online member account to find one. Then, give them a call.

Many doctors are offering telehealth visits, which are visits done online or over the phone.

Log in to find a doctor

24-Hour Nurse Line

24-Hour Nurse Line

You can speak with a registered nurse if you have questions about the coronavirus or would like free health care advice.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan PPO:

1-800-775-BLUE (2583)

Blue Care Network HMO and HMO-POS:

1-855-624-5214

Blue Cross Medicare Supplement and Legacy Medigap:

1-844-278-6316

TTY users, call 711.

Blue Cross Online Visits

Blue Cross Online VisitsSM

You can have a face-to-face, virtual visit with a U.S. board-certified doctor - anytime, day or night. You can also make an appointment to see a therapist or psychiatrist.

Start an online visit

Make sure to include your Enrollee ID when you sign up so your coverage applies correctly.

Mental Health Support

Mental Health Support

Help is just a phone call away if you're feeling anxious or need support.

COVID-19 Crisis Hotline:

1-833-848-1764

For information and referral to providers offering online group therapy and support, contact:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan PPO:

1-800-762-2382

Blue Care Network HMO:

1-800-482-5982

Medicare Plus Blue PPO:

1-888-803-4960

BCN Advantage HMO and HMO-POS:

1-800-431-1059

corona virus

Check your symptoms and risk for COVID-19

The CDC has a prevention tool you can use. Simply answer a few questions about your current health and learn more about next steps.

Start CDC assessment

In general, people who are 65 or older, and anyone with certain underlying medical conditions might be at a higher risk. Read about what the CDC recommends for these high-risk groups.

Member

How lab testing for COVID-19 works

If you're concerned you may need a coronavirus test, please keep the following in mind.

Start with a health care provider

A health care provider should be a licensed physician, pharmacist or clinician operating within the scope of their license.

For Blue Cross to cover the cost of a COVID-19 test, it needs to be:
Ordered by a licensed health care provider;
Considered medically necessary by the provider; and
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

This is in accordance with the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the CARES Act.

If your provider determines that you need a test, you can find one by:
Getting a recommendation from your provider on where to get one.
Using the COVID-19 Test Finder, even if you live outside of Michigan.
Be sure to bring any documentation from your provider with you to the test site.

If you have more questions about COVID-19 tests, please visit our testing FAQs.

How at-home testing for COVID-19 works

At-home COVID-19 tests have begun to appear in the market. While we recommend you go to your provider for testing, we know that isn't always an option. To be eligible for reimbursement you'll need to follow these guidelines:

Test approved by the FDA
Test ordered by a health care provider
Test was medically necessary
  • You were exposed to someone with COVID
  • You have COVID-19 symptoms
You can provide a receipt for the amount paid

If you've met these four requirements, complete the reimbursement form. Reimbursement will not be allowed unless all guidelines are met.

If you're diagnosed with COVID-19

We want you to stay focused on getting better. If you need treatment for COVID-19 symptoms, we'll take care of the costs through September 30*. For care that's not related to COVID-19 symptoms, regular benefits apply.

Please see our press release for more information.

*Blue Cross will cover the cost for Michigan Public School Retirees through June 30. State of Michigan and MPSERS: This page offers helpful resources but should not be a substitute for what your specific plan covers. Please refer to either bcbsm.com/som or bcbsm.com/mpsers for your benefits related to COVID-19. Medicare Supplement members: If you've purchased a Medicare Supplement plan outside of an employer, please log in to see your out-of-pocket costs. Other Medicare Advantage members: Please visit the senior COVID-19 site that we've created, just for you.

Guidance on prescription drugs

Have Blue Cross pharmacy coverage? We're taking precautions to make sure you can get the prescription drugs you need. No matter if you've been exposed to the coronavirus or not.

Helping members get access

If your medication isn't available because of a shortage, you can still get a similar one at no extra cost. You can continue to get your prescriptions filled at your local pharmacy or by mail. Whichever is most convenient for you.

Remember to take the right precautions if you plan to visit your pharmacy. Using the pharmacy drive-thru is also a good option.

Don't have pharmacy coverage with us? Reach out to your pharmacy carrier to see what options they may have available to you.

90-day mail-order prescriptions

If you need a medication to maintain your health, a 90-day mail-order prescription through Express Scripts® might be the right choice. It can help you have enough on hand, so you don't run out. Simply contact your pharmacy to transfer your prescription to mail order. You can also log in to your online member account or call Express Scripts at 1-800­-778-­0735. TTY users should call 1-800­-759-1089. Just note that some controlled substances may have limits on the daily supply.

Member

If you have questions about your health plan and benefits

You have options to get the support you need when it's convenient for you.

Online support:

You can access your plan information, like coverage and claims, anytime. Just log in to your online member account.

Phone support:

Our Customer Service Representatives are here to help. You can call the number on the back of your Blue Cross ID card to speak with a representative and get your questions answered. Please note: Because of the impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency, our phone lines will likely have longer wait times than usual.
corona virus

Where you can get more information

Visit our blog to stay up to date on the latest coronavirus news and guidelines. We take the health of our community seriously and are reporting on breaking news, as it develops.

Get coronavirus updates by email or text. Just register for an account with us.

For recent coronavirus cases and statistics, please visit the State of Michigan site.

If you're still feeling stressed or concerned

The coronavirus pandemic can feel overwhelming, even when you're armed with the facts. We want you to know, we're here to help.

Mental health and well-being services are available to you, even if you haven't been exposed to the virus. We can help with these options:

Blue Cross Online Visits

Blue Cross Online Visits

You can have a face-to-face, virtual therapy or psychiatry visit.

Schedule an appointment

Include your Enrollee ID when you sign up so we can make sure your coverage applies correctly.

Mental Health Support

Mental Health Support

Help is just a phone call away if you're feeling anxious or need support.

COVID-19 Crisis Hotline:

1-833-848-1764

For information and referral to providers offering online group therapy and support, contact:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan PPO:

1-800-762-2382

Blue Care Network HMO:

1-800-482-5982

Medicare Plus Blue PPO:

1-888-803-4960

BCN Advantage HMO and HMO-POS:

1-800-431-1059

Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being

Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being

View free, weekly webinars designed to help you during these challenging times.

Topics include resiliency, working from home and preparing healthy meals from pantry items.

Register to attend

Frequently Asked Questions

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 testing?

The accuracy of at-home testing is still uncertain, because it relies 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.

Blue Cross will cover the cost of an at-home COVID-19 if:

Test approved by the FDA
Test ordered by a health care provider
Test was medically necessary
  • You were exposed to someone with COVID
  • You have COVID-19 symptoms
You can provide a receipt for the amount paid

If you've met these four requirements, complete the reimbursement form. Reimbursement will not be allowed unless all guidelines are met.

At-home tests are becoming more widely available. 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?

We don't know yet. More guidance will be coming from the federal government. The government is still advising that people wear masks and practice social distancing, even after getting the vaccine.

Will I need to get a COVID-19 vaccine each year?

More guidance will be coming from the federal government on this, later in 2021.

Will the COVID-19 vaccine stop you from spreading the virus?

We don't know yet. The CDC is still studying this.

Can doctors prescribe medications during a telehealth visit?

Yes, doctors who offer telehealth services can prescribe medications. If you get your care through a Blue Cross Online Visit, 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 walk-in centers are closed?

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?

We're putting in safeguards to avoid coverage cancellation if your payment is delayed. 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.
  • You can also learn about COBRA and other options, or job loss as a qualifying life event.

Are there any medications currently being used for COVID-19 treatment?

There are no FDA-approved treatments for COVID-19. We're monitoring all drugs or vaccines in development for prevention or treatment, and we'll make sure to keep you up to date on any new information. At this time, health experts estimate a vaccine will be available within 18 months.

What if there's a prescription drug shortage?

It's important to note that there are no prescription drug shortages currently, and there aren't any expected. However, things are changing rapidly, and we're constantly monitoring this situation.

Should we experience a state of emergency where drugs are in short supply, we'll do everything possible to make sure people have the medications they need. That includes being flexible about filling a medication that may not be on a preferred drug list.

In addition, you won't have to pay extra if there are additional charges for a medication that is on our nonpreferred list.

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?

We're offering ways to manage stress and anxiety related to the pandemic through 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.

Will I be charged for my Fitness Your Way membership?

Tivity Health® previously placed a hold on Fitness Your Way memberships due to stay at home orders. However, since the state of Michigan reopened gyms on Sept. 9, membership fees are no longer waived. You may have received an email stating that charges to your account will resume.

You should contact your gym for information about safety precautions, hours and available services. If you have more questions about this program, please call 1-877-614-6313.

I'm a UAW member, 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.

Employer

We've got you covered all the way around

Over 80 years of experience has shown us just how personal health care is, especially in times like these. Here's how we're helping you stay prepared.

Your questions, answered

We've made a list of the most popular questions that you, our employers and agents, ask. You can see them by logging in to your employer or agent secured services account. They're in a document called the Group FAQ.

Have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine?

We’ve got answers for you and your employees. Together, we can all do our part to prepare, protect and prevent the further spread of the virus.

  • Access our COVID-19 employer toolkit and read the vaccine info
  • Learn What You Should Know about the COVID-19 vaccine
  • Check out the Group FAQ in your employer or agent account

Industry news and business articles

Staying up to speed on COVID-19 can be daunting. Our goal is to make it easy for you. Our blog and white papers are a quick and easy way to stay informed.

  • Blog: What You Need to Know About COVID-19
  • White paper: Behavioral Health and the Impact of COVID-19
  • White paper: Social Determinants of Health and COVID-19
Employer

Exclusively for our small group customers

If you have additional questions or concerns about COVID-19, you can call our helpline at 1-866-582-5052 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or send us an email.

The purpose of the helpline and mailbox is to assist you with Blue Cross policies, small business resources, requests for support and other issues connected to COVID-19.

Medical Care icon

Medical care

$0 FDA-approved, COVID-19 lab tests when authorized by a health care provider

$0 treatment of COVID-19 symptoms with medical diagnosis

$0 nurse line, available 24/7

Access to virtual medical visits and phone consultations for common services through network doctors or Blue Cross Online Visits℠

$0 initial cost of a COVID-19 vaccine

Mental Health icon

Mental health

Access to virtual therapy visits through Blue Cross Online Visits

24-hour mental health crisis hotline

Pharmacy icon

Pharmacy

No-cost substitutions if drugs are out of stock

Promotion of Free Home delivery through Express Scripts® Mail Order Pharmacy

Extending Prior Authorization for select medical and pharmacy drugs expiring before June 1 to Aug. 1

Dental icon

Dental

Expanded access to emergency dental care with teledentistry

Well being icon

Well-being

Weekly virtual well-being webinars to address mind, body and financial concerns during the crisis

Service and care support icon

Service and care support

24/7 online account and mobile app access - employees can manage their plan plus get questions answered with the MIBlue Virtual Assistant

Proactive outreach by care managers for the most at-risk members

Helpful blog content

*Changes to our plans and services are for the health and well-being of our members during this crisis. The changes are temporary and apply only to eligible members and groups.

**The cost will be handled by the government, employers and health plans like Blue Cross to make sure everyone has an opportunity to get vaccinated. For more information, please log in to your employer or agent secured services account and read our FAQs.

Employer3

COVID-19 resources to share with your employees

Employer toolkit for COVID-19

This toolkit will help your employees know their health care options during the pandemic. It has general information, including email templates, flyers and other materials.

Get the toolkit

Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being

Help your employees find mind, body and financial balance during these difficult times with our weekly, virtual well-being webinars.

Share the webinars

MI Blues Perspectives blog

Your employees can see updates from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the CDC and the State of Michigan anytime, and all in one place.

Share the blog

Blue Cross COVID-19 page

Tell your employees about the For Members tab of this page, so they can know their options. You can also share this easy-to-remember link with them: bcbsm.com/coronavirus.

You're our heroes on the front line

And for that, you have our gratitude. If you're a Michigan provider, Provider Secured Services is your best Blue Cross resource for the coronavirus. You'll find the most up-to-date information there.

Log in now Not yet registered? Learn how to get an account .

Read our list of temporary changes (PDF) to see how Blue Cross and Blue Care Network are supporting providers and protecting members during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read our Provider Alerts for recent updates

We're committed to keeping you up to date on the changes we're making in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
You can find out what we've updated and when we've changed it with our provider alerts:

Current Provider Alerts
Clinical review requirements suspended for admission to SNFs (PDF)
Temporary waiving of early medication refill limits ending (PDF)
2% sequestration suspension extended to April 30, 2021 (PDF)
Clarification and reminders about COVID-19 testing (PDF)
BCBSM ending anti-stockpiling quantity limits (PDF)
Janssen vaccine receives emergency use authorization (PDF)
COVID-19 testing reminders and at-home testing (PDF)
COVID-19 vaccine billing for nonparticipating providers (PDF)
Blue Cross extends waiving member cost sharing for COVID-19 treatments (PDF)
COVID-19 telehealth code chart changes (PDF)
OPC providers can bill only for services that fall within their scope of practice (PDF)
New ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes to capture COVID-19 diagnoses (PDF)
Waiving of early medication refill limits for commercial products (PDF)
Medicare-covered telehealth services reminder (PDF)
Billing for COVID-19 vaccine administration (PDF)
Two percent sequestration suspension extended to March 31 (PDF)
Some temporary changes conclude Dec. 31, 2020 (PDF)
Provider Doctor
Medicare-covered telehealth billable for duration of PHE (PDF)
BCBSM will provide $0 cost sharing for vaccine coverage (PDF)
Autism spectrum disorder services telehealth update (PDF)
COVID-19 treatment cost share waived through March 31, 2021 (PDF)
Clinical review requirements suspended (PDF)
Clarification for billing (PDF)
11 new codes for telehealth services (PDF)
Coverage decisions announced for additional COVID-19 testing codes (PDF)
Time extension to complete cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation visits (PDF)
Additional laboratory services covered (PDF)
Blue Cross and BCN clarify pre-operative COVID-19 testing guidelines (PDF)
Temporary claim submission extension concluded Sept. 30, 2020 (PDF)
Updates on temporary sequestration relief and DRG enhancement for MA (PDF)
Benefit period extended for authorized PT-OT-ST for BCN HMO members (PDF)
Temporary inpatient enhancement requires positive COVID-19 test (PDF)
Pharmacies can bill for COVID-19 testing (PDF)
Extended authorization end dates on select medical and pharmacy benefit drugs for Medicare Advantage members (PDF)
Extending global referrals for BCN HMO (PDF)
Telehealth update: Clarifying billing information for PPO members (PDF)
Telehealth update: Temporarily allowing direct-line ABA interventions (PDF)
Temporary authorization extension for select medical and pharmacy benefit drugs concludes Aug. 1, 2020 (PDF)
Two groups extending cost share waivers (PDF)
Temporary waiving of early medication refill limits ends July 14 (PDF)
Additional COVID-19 testing coverage information (PDF)
MESSA no cost telehealth extension update (PDF)
Webinar examines how some practices are coping (PDF)
Blue Cross and BCN will not pay cost share directly to providers (PDF)
Blue Cross and BCN waiving cost share for MA members (PDF)
Suggestions for reopening offices (PDF)
Ending 90-day extension to claim submissions (PDF)
Clinical review requirements return July 1 (PDF)
Updated patient testing recommendations (PDF)
Updated telehealth documents (PDF)
Clinical review required for acute care admissions with non-COVID-19-related diagnoses (PDF)
Waiving member cost share for telehealth originating site facility fee (PDF)
Update of temporary changes (PDF)
Billing Tips (PDF)
Updated patient testing and billing recommendations (PDF)
COVID-19 related utilization management changes (PDF)
Relaxation of HIPAA compliance requirements for telehealth visits (PDF)
Updated patient testing and billing recommendations (PDF)
CMS expands telehealth codes coverage (PDF)
Providers encouraged to use self-help tools (PDF)
COVID-19 webinars announced (PDF)
Telehealth billing changes and FAQs (PDF)
Waiving cost sharing for Medicare Advantage members (PDF)
Updates to patient testing recommendations (PDF)
List of COVID-19 temporary changes now available (PDF)
Temporary quantity limits (PDF)
Home-based substance use disorder treatments (PDF)
HIPAA compliance requirements extension (PDF)
Outpatient psychiatric centers change the order of modifiers (PDF)
Billing and cost share waivers (PDF)
Hospitals must notify naviHealth before transferring Medicare Advantage members to SNFs (PDF)
Sequestration relief and DRG enhancement for providers treating COVID-19 (PDF)
Tele-town hall for physicians on CARES Act (PDF)
MSMS Partnership for access to COVID-19 webinars (PDF)
Changes to authorization durations for elective and non-urgent procedures (PDF)
We're extending the benefit period for PT, OT and ST (PDF)
Blue Cross and BCN support outpatient behavioral health treatment delivered via telemedicine (PDF)
We've updated the Telehealth for behavioral health providers document (PDF)
We've updated the billing recommendations for COVID-19 testing, including drive through (PDF)
Blue Cross has extended authorization dates on select medical and pharmacy benefit drugs for commercial members (PDF)
Blue Cross has extended authorization dates on select medical and pharmacy benefit drugs for Medicare Advantage members (PDF)
Autism assessments and protocol modification during the COVID-19 crisis (PDF)
Blue Cross has extended authorization dates on select medical and pharmacy benefit drugs for Medicare Advantage members (PDF)
No-cost telehealth services to members expanded plus general telehealth clarifications (PDF)
New COVID-19 diagnosis code effective April 1, 2020 (PDF)
Changes to authorization durations for elective and nonurgent procedures, including PT, OT and ST, during the COVID-19 pandemic (PDF)
We're granting a 90-day extension to claim submission time limits (PDF)
How to submit a plan notification for acute care hospital facility admissions and request for post-acute care admissions (PDF)
We've updated the telehealth procedure codes for COVID-19 and our telehealth guides for providers (PDF)
COVID-19 testing and treatment covered at no member cost-sharing (PDF)
Finding a member's benefits for Blue Cross Online VisitsSM (PDF)
Outpatient psychiatric centers (PDF)
Clinical requirements suspended for acute care admissions, skilled nursing facility transfers (PDF)
No-cost telehealth services expanded to behavioral health, extended through June 30 (PDF)
Influenza testing now covered in the physician's office (PDF)
Diagnosis codes, PPEs and ensuring providers are available to care for members (PDF)
Autism services and telehealth (PDF)
Submit claims electronically during the COVID-19 pandemic (PDF)
State of Michigan announces temporary restrictions on non-essential procedures (PDF)
Telehealth billing changes for outpatient psychiatric centers (PDF)
COVID-19 updates from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (PDF)
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services guidance on testing (PDF)
ICD-10-CM coding guidelines (PDF)
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services guidance on testing (PDF)

Vaccines

COVID-19 Vaccine Information (PDF)
COVID-19 vaccine billing information at a glance (PDF)

Billing

COVID-19 Billing Tips at a Glance (PDF)
COVID-19 Billing Tips (PDF)

What you need to know about COVID-19 patient testing

Blue Cross is fully covering the cost of coronavirus testing from any Michigan lab for most members.

Use this document to learn the codes you'll need. You'll also see our testing recommendations from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
Billing recommendations for COVID-19 testing including drive-through (PDF)
COVID-19 patient testing recommendations (PDF)

Pharmacy updates

Stay up-to-date on how medication supplies are changing during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Find information on quantity limits, how to request authorization from the safety of your own home and more.

Temporary quantity limits (PDF)
Pharmacies encouraged to join the Blue Cross Vaccine Affiliation Program (PDF)
COVID-19 testing for pharmacies:
For commercial members (Blue Cross PPO and BCN HMO)
For Medicare Advantage members (Medicare Plus Blue and BCN Advantage)

How to use telehealth services to see patients

Telehealth is an umbrella term that includes telemedicine, telephone and online visits which can be beneficial in reducing the need for in-person medical care.

Read through our medical policy to understand our requirements and general guidelines:
Telehealth Medical Policy (PDF)
These telehealth guides will help you learn which services you can use and when to use them:
Telehealth for Medical Providers (PDF)
Telehealth for Behavioral Health Providers (PDF)
Guidelines for autism interventions (PDF)
The following codes have no member cost-share during the COVID-19 pandemic:
Telehealth procedure codes for COVID-19 (PDF)
To save you time, we're downloading these codes monthly as needed from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services:
Medicare-covered telehealth services for the COVID-19 PHE (PDF)
Frequently asked questions for providers
Frequently asked questions for providers (PDF)
To determine if your patient has telemedicine (provided by network providers) or Blue Cross Online VisitsSM access (conducted by Amwell), consult the following chart:
Determining members telehealth benefits (PDF)
Step-by-step instructions to find Blue Cross Online VisitsSM access (conducted by Amwell)
Finding a member's benefits for Blue Cross Online VisitsSM (PDF)

Changes we've made to utilization management

We've made it easier for providers to deliver coronavirus testing and treatment services.

Read about our recent changes and how they might help you expedite care:
COVID-19 Utilization Management Changes (PDF)

General resources for coronavirus care

Looking for more information? Read through our general resources:

From the State of Michigan:
COVID-19 vaccine provider guidance and educational resources
Resources for health professionals
Coronavirus updates
From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
COVID-19 CDC toolkit for health care providers
Information for health care providers from the CDC
Provider

We've got information that's just for you

If you're a Medicaid member, please visit the Blue Cross Complete of Michigan website. You'll see coronavirus information that's specifically for you, including your care options and other helpful resources.

Visit Medicaid site

Your health is more important than ever

We've created an online COVID-19 site that's just for Medicare members. It includes care options, articles, FAQs and more. It's our privilege to serve you – now, and always.

Get Medicare info

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