Frequently Asked Questions

Claims and Benefits

• Are at home testing kits for COVID-19 covered?

  No. The FDA has not currently authorized any test that is available to purchase for at home testing for COVID-19. Due to concerns regarding the reliability of obtaining and processing samples, at home testing kits for COVID-19 are not covered.
• How will HSA-qualified High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) be affected by COVID-19?

  Based on recent IRS guidelines, expenses related to testing and treatment, including related office visits, for COVID-19 can process pre-deductible under an HSA-qualified HDHP.

General Questions

• What is COVID-19?

  COVID-19 is the official name for the illness caused by the newly identified coronavirus. Since the outbreak began late last year, infections have been reported in numerous international locations, including within the United States.
  
  On January 30, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern.” On January 31st, the U.S. Health and Human Services office declared a public health emergency to aid the U.S. healthcare community in responding to COVID-19.
• What is a coronavirus?

  Coronaviruses are not new, and are very common in many species of animals, including camels, cattle and bats. Occasionally coronaviruses can infect people and then spread person-to-person, as was the case with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and now with COVID-19. Coronaviruses infect the respiratory tract and are associated with the common cold and pneumonia.
• UPDATED 4/6 - How is it spread?

  The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Maintaining good social distance (about 6 feet) is very important in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
  
  It may be possible that a person can also get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about this virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people practice frequent “hand hygiene,” which is either washing hands with soap or water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The CDC also recommends routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces.
  
  COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in many affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.
• What are the symptoms of COVID-19 infection?

  Some people with confirmed cases of COVID-19 experience very mild symptoms while others have experienced severe illness and death. Symptoms have included fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
• Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?

  Because this is a previously unidentified coronavirus, there is no vaccine available at this time. However, several pharmaceutical companies are currently working to create one.
• How can people avoid catching COVID-19?

  The CDC recommends the following best practices to avoid becoming sick with a respiratory illness:

  • Avoid close contact with sick people
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
  • Stay home when sick
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then discard the tissue
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• What should I do if I traveled near an outbreak or have been in contact with someone has tested positive for COVID-19?

  People who have recently traveled to any area where there is an outbreak, or had close contact with someone infected with COVID-19 and develop symptoms, should contact their healthcare provider and make them aware of their symptoms and exposure. Their healthcare provider will advise them of the appropriate next steps.
• Where can I learn more about COVID-19?

  To access the most current official information on the COVID-19 virus, please visit the COVID-19 pages on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.