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Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus is called COVID-19.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), common signs of COVID-19 include:
- Fever, tiredness and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea.
- These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell.
- People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.
We will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 outbreak. In response to the outbreak, we're offering the following services and resources to keep you and your covered dependents safe.
Effective March 12th, the following resources are available:
- We will cover, with no cost-share to you, medically necessary, prescribed diagnostic testing for the virus, known officially as COVID-19, consistent with U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.
- This coverage includes the cost of the COVID-19 test, physician/doctor consultation fee and associated costs related to administering the COVID-19 test.
- We will waive prior authorizations for medically necessary, prescribed tests and covered services related to COVID-19, consistent with CDC guidelines.
- To help reduce potential exposure, we encourage you to utilize our telemedicine service, Global TeleMD™, which provides 24/7/365 confidential access to a global network of doctors around the world via telephone or secure video call.
For questions about benefits and coverage, you should call the toll-free number on the back of your ID card. |
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The current pandemic is causing service delays across the nation. To avoid any potential claim submission delays, we strongly encourage you to file online. Quickly and conveniently submit your claims through the mobile app or the Member Hub. |
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Services Available to You
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 A safe and convenient option for accessing healthcare services is our telemedicine service, Global TeleMD™, which you can download for free to your mobile device from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Once you download the app, you'll need to create a profile, which is quick and easy. Please have your member ID card or Certificate Number available when creating your profile.
The Global TeleMD app provides remote access to a global network of licensed doctors by telephone or video without needing to leave your home or office. All Global TeleMD doctors in the region are briefed on the World Health Organization’s recommendations and are prepared to render remote consultations with patients around the world. Remote consultations via Global TeleMD are free and can be used as many times as you need. |
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 Members have access to top-quality medical care around the globe. Visit the Member Hub on www.geo-blue.com or in the mobile app to find a provider or hospital.
If you have questions or need medical assistance, please contact us via the number on the back of your ID card.
In accordance with CDC and WHO guidelines, we strongly recommend calling your provider for medical advice if you think you've been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as a cough or difficulty breathing. Be sure to tell them you have or may have COVID-19. Depending on your location, testing and the ability to isolate infected patients may vary. Contacting your provider ahead of time will help the office/facility protect you, staff and other patients. For additional guidelines, follow directions provided by your local health authority or visit the CDC and WHO. |
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 Anxiety, panic and stress are common emotions you may experience during an outbreak, such as the coronavirus. As a covered member, you have access to telephonic emotional support services provided by trained counsellors. You can access these services via the telehealth button on the mobile app and then "Talk to a Counselor" or by logging in or registering to the Member Hub on www.geo-blue.com and visiting "Global EAP" in the "Wellness" section. Our wellness portal also provides helpful links and resources including how to cope with stress during a disease outbreak and other crisis support information. |
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Resources Available to You
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We've tapped the expertise of carefully selected sources to bring you timely and relevant online seminars.
Now available on demand: Keep Calm and Carry on – Maintaining your composure amidst the pandemic panic
In this session you will learn:
- Strategies to tackle feelings of
anxiety and stress
- Practical techniques for working
from home
- Ways to address signs of panic
in the workplace
- When to reach out for further help
and support
To access, visit the Global EAP section of the Member Hub on www.geo-blue.com and choose your preferred "country-language" to view this Online Seminar.
Country-Language availability:
- Global-English
- US-English
- Chinese-Mandarin
- France-Français
- Canada-Français
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To avoid the spread of infection, the WHO recommends:
- Regular and thorough hand washing
- Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing
- Refraining from touching eyes, nose and mouth
- Avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing
to wash your hands for 20 seconds. Click here to learn how you can protect yourself by singing our favorite tune!
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS PLEASE FOLLOW THE BELOW LINKS:
