No Out-of-Pocket Costs for Coronavirus Testing for CareSource Members

(March 9, 2020 – Dayton, Ohio) – CareSource announced Monday that all members, regardless of their plan, are able to receive coronavirus (COVID-19) testing with no out-of-pocket costs.

There are no changes to CareSource’s prior approval process at this time and members do not need prior approval for outpatient emergency room or office care visits within the CareSource network. CareSource will waive member cost sharing, including copays, coinsurance and deductibles, for COVID-19 diagnostic testing. The testing must be provided at approved locations in accordance with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.

“While the CDC information shows the risk of the virus remains low, we want to ensure there are no barriers to our members getting care,” said Dr. James Voiland, Chief Clinical Officer, CareSource.  “With that in mind, we are clearing a path for CareSource members to have no out-of-pocket costs associated with testing for COVID-19.”

What You Need to Know About the Coronavirus

CareSource has a team of experts closely monitoring COVID-19 and its impact both locally and around the world. Our top priority is the health and well-being of its members and ensuring they have access to health care. Our Chief Clinical Officer is working closely with a team of medical professionals as well as those at the state and national level to protect the health and well-being of all of those who could be impacted.

As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to increase nationally and globally, our top priority is to maintain the health and safety of the communities where we live, work and serve. We are consistently communicating with employees, partners and members to ensure they have the support they need to stay healthy during this evolving health matter.

It is important to know that 80 percent of COVID-19 cases are mild and without symptoms. Like the seasonal flu, COVID-19 is more severe in patients with long-term, underlying health conditions and the elderly.

CareSource recommends following the guidelines issued by local health authorities, the CDC and the World Health Organization.

Tips to Prevent Spread of Contagious Coronavirus

Similar to other communicable viruses, we can all play a role in protecting our communities and families from the spread of COVID-19. The following are some simple tips you can take to prevent infection:

• Vigorously wash your hands thoroughly (at least 20-30 seconds) using soap and water.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizing rub (must contain at least 60 percent alcohol).
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze by coughing/sneezing into your elbow.
• Promptly dispose of tissues in a wastebasket after use.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Avoid shaking hands and close contact with people who are sick.
• Get a flu shot.

For more information, including travel advisories, please visit www.cdc.gov

More Questions and Answers About the Coronavirus

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging illness. Many details about this disease are still unknown, such as treatment options, how the virus works, the total impact of the illness and many other factors.

What is the coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that is caused by a new virus called a coronavirus, which has become a public health emergency. The number of cases continues to grow daily both nationally and globally.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of coronavirus include mild to severe respiratory symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath, and lower respiratory illness. It may be contagious before a person begins showing symptoms.

Influenza (the flu), a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses (Type A and Type B), has high activity in the United States at this time. The flu is unlike coronavirus in that we do have vaccinations that are effective in helping to prevent the flu. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.html    

I may have symptoms, what should I do?

If you have been exposed or begin showing symptoms of the virus or the flu, contact your health care provider or health department immediately.