Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Medicare in Georgia

5 years ago

Long-Term Care, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, Medigap (Medicare Supplement), Other Medicare Parts

In this post we will cover the coronavirus and how it will interact with Medicare coverage in Georgia.

About the Coronavirus – COVID-19

The best place to stay up to date with REAL information about the virus is the CDC’s website:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Everyone has an opinion on the coronavirus, but what is important is that you get information from official channels. The CDC website is a wealth of information on COVID-19. Information includes current outbreak numbers, risk factors, prevention, treatment and more!

The Georgia Department of Public Health’s website is another important resource for information. Local matters most and the DPH website will make sure that you have the most up to date information about what is happening with COVID-19 in Georgia.

https://dph.georgia.gov/

Coronavirus Medicare coverage in Georgia

How is Coronavirus covered under Medicare in Georgia? According to the CMS:

The main services that come into play with the Coronavirus will be:

Diagnostic & Laboratory Services – Covered under Medicare Part B.
Vaccines – If a Vaccine is developed, it will be covered under Medicare Part B or D depending on your plan.
Hospitalization & Ambulatory Patient Services – This is covered under Medicare Part A and B.
Telehealth – Since 2018, Medicare pays for “virtual check-ins” for patient to speak with their doctor without going to the office. This is a great way to limit exposure!
Prescription drugs – Generally covered under part D. Some prescription refills can fall under Part B.

CMS has also recently developed an additional code for COVID-19 lab tests. This is significant because this will encourage doctors and hospitals to test for coronavirus. The change makes it easier to administer, track and receive payment for tests. Learn more HERE!

No need to panic! If you have Medicare your plan will cover treatment of COVID-19 in some manner. The best way to check how your insurance carrier is covering specific services related to Coronavirus is to call them or check the information below.