Empire Waives Cost Share for COVID-19 Treatment (Updated May 29, 2020)

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread throughout the United States, we appreciate that care providers across the country on the front line are committed to providing care to our members and communities.

 

During these challenging times, Empire BlueCross BlueShield (“Empire”) remains committed to living our values and supporting those we serve, which includes making it as easy as possible for care providers  to focus on what’s important right now, keeping the country healthy.  In addition to the proactive steps Empire has already taken to support care providers and protect our members, associates and communities against COVID-19, Empire announced, effective April 1 that we will expand coverage for our members undergoing treatment related to COVID-19 diagnosis.

 

The expansion covers the waiver of cost shares for COVID-19 treatment received through December 31, 2020. Empire will reimburse health care providers at in-network rates or Medicare rates, as applicable, for Empire’s affiliated health plan fully insured, Individual, Medicaid and Medicare Advantage members. Empire encourages self-funded employer participation; however, self-insured employers will be able to opt out of participation.

 

Empire continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 developments and listen to the needs of our communities, Empire associates and all of the members and care providers we serve.  We will continue to update you as we receive new information and guidance.