COVID-19 has turned the world upside down in more ways than any of us will ever understand. The way the pandemic affects Medicare is broad, but here, I’ll share answers to questions countless Medicare beneficiaries are asking themselves right now. Here are a few:
How does Medicare cover testing for COVID-19?
Medicare covers testing for COVID-19 under Part B. As of now, your doctor must order the test, and effective February 4, Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover tests for COVID-19, as well. Also important to know is that a provision in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act limited cost sharing with testing related to the virus.
How do I go about getting tested?
Testing is different depending on where you live. The same general rules apply, but availability may be more limited in some areas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that the first step if you believe you need a test is to call your primary care provider. To learn about testing availability in your area, you could also call your local or state health department.
How can I complete my primary care appointment and not risk contracting the virus?
Telemedicine has been around for several years, but COVID-19 required Medicare to enter the 21st century and allow beneficiaries to utilize these vetted, safe and convenient methods. While you may need help getting set up with a telemedicine service, using such services can help you avoid going to the doctor or hospital unnecessarily. One silver lining of the pandemic is this improvement in Medicare.
What can my Medicare plan help me with regarding additional items I need during this time?
One thing people continue to ask us is whether their Medicare plan helps with over-the-counter items or meals at home because these are more popular now than ever. Several plans do have benefits for home-delivered meals and over-the-counter items, such as vitamins, medicine, hand sanitizer and necessary toiletries. This can help out greatly when dealing with this pandemic on a fixed income.
Be careful, though, about joining a plan to gain access to these benefits in this time. This is because many of these plans can impose a network on your medical care that limits the number of providers you can see and may even increase your out-of-pocket costs to a level of which you aren't conditioned. Make sure to consult a trusted resource before making plan elections based on singular benefits.
Some last tips for Medicare beneficiaries related to COVID-19:
• Consider filling your prescriptions for 90 days and using a pharmacy with a drive-thru.
• Make a list of people you can rely on if you need help during this pandemic.
• Reach out to your doctor so that you're familiar with the way they are practicing during these unusual times.
I could go on about the things I think are important for the most vulnerable members of our community, but I wanted to give you some general guidance that will hopefully keep you informed and prepared for the worst while we all hope for the best.
