BCBS Kansas extends COVID-19 coverage

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Kansas, one of the largest health insurance companies in the state, announced Friday it would continue covering the cost of COVID-19 treatment for members.

It will continue waiving member co-pays and deductibles of COVID-19 treatment through March 31. This applies to fully insured members and those using Medicare Advantage plans.

Originally set to expire at the end of the year, coverage includes telehealth services and those at a doctor’s office, urgent care facility and emergency room, plus in-patient hospital stays.

“Extending this coverage is the right decision and shows our continued commitment to the health and wellbeing of our members,” CEO Matt All of BCBSKS said in a statement. “While we are at the height of this pandemic, no one should have to decide between seeking care for COVID-19 and paying bills or putting food on the table.”

Diagnostic COVID-19 testing will be covered, too, at no member cost share for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As vaccines are starting to roll out, BCBSKS is also planning to cover any administration fees for members. The vaccine itself is already free.

The company recommends insured Kansans to use an in-network provider to avoid being surprised by large medical bills.

Titus Wu, Topeka Capital-Journal USA TODAY NETWORK