It’s the most unique and inspiring aspect of humanity. Facing the darkest times, toughest odds and most daunting challenges is when we find our greatest strength. And when we’re furthest apart, we find new ways to remind each other that we’re not alone.

The safety and wellbeing of our members, our employees, and our community are at the center of everything we do. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is monitoring developments about novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and what it means for our community, and we will keep you informed of any changes to your health plan as soon as possible.

• No cost to members for COVID-19 testing where medically necessary consistent with CDC guidance
• No cost to members for medically necessary office, urgent care, or ER visits related to COVID-19
• No cost to members for telehealth services
• For self-insured group plan members, please consult with your employer’s human resources or health benefits representative for COVID-19 related benefits
• Members are encouraged to use their 90-day mail order benefit for prescription medications, and early medication refills are available for prescriptions during the state of emergency
• Mental, behavioral, and emotional health resources to support you when you need it most

• Find confidence and stability through $0 or low cost plans for those experiencing hardship

• Information and FAQs for employers on COBRA programs

Contact us for personalized care and questions about your coverage.

We’ve been by your side as our schools, favorite restaurants and places of employment closed to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Of course, we’ll be with you as our communities begin to reopen as New York State’s PAUSE initiative sets to expire by region.

While each region will open on a different timetable based on their ability to meet certain criteria, there are some guidelines we should all be practicing now, and in the future, to keep ourselves, our coworkers and our families safe. The following guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) since the pandemic began still holds true. Everyone should continue to:

• Stay at least 6 feet from other people.
• Wear a cloth face covering over your nose and mouth when in public.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you don’t have soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Cover all surfaces on your hands and run them together until they dry.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.

​As we head back to work, there’s no doubt things—and people—will look different. There are some additional things to remember.

To help alleviate the burden on provider offices, urgent care centers and hospitals, telehealth visits will be covered at no cost for most members (effective March 13, 2020).

For self-insured group plan members, please consult with your employer’s human resources or health benefits representative for COVID-19 related benefits.

You should ask your provider in advance if they are equipped to conduct telehealth visits via telephone, e-mail, or video chat.

Some common conditions for telehealth visits include:

• Adults: allergies, cold and flu, ear infections, fever, headaches, joint aches and pains, nausea and vomiting, pink eye, rashes, sinus infections, urinary tract infections; behavioral health conditions such as addiction, stress, depression, and PTSD.
• Children: cold and flu, constipation, earache, fever, nausea and vomiting, pink eye
• Certain conditions requiring specialized care such as dermatology, acute chiropractic care, and nutrition consulting can also be treated with a telehealth visit. Check with your specialist to see if they offer this option.

When your doctor isn’t available, telemedicine may be an option for you. Whether you need a consultation for acute, non-emergency conditions, or someone to talk to during a challenging time, our partnership with MDLIVE gives you convenient access to medical and behavioral health care 24/7/365 from the comfort of your home. Note: At this time MDLive is unable to order COVID-19 tests. Please contact your doctor or local county health department if you believe you have COVID-19 symptoms.