Humana is waiving costs for all primary care and behavioral health visits for MA members
Cost sharing is being waived for in-network primary care, behavioral health and telehealth visits.
As a number of states start to come online and reopen, Humana has announced that it is waiving member costs for all primary care and behavioral health visits for its 4.5 million Medicare Advantage members through the end of the year.
For its population of seniors enrolled in its MA plans, Humana is waiving all cost sharing, including copays, coinsurance and deductibles – for in-network primary care and behavioral health – for both in-person and telehealth visits.
These expanded cost-share waivers are effective as of May 1 and will remain in place through the end of 2020.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Humana is waiving in-network primary care costs, not only for COVID-19 costs, but all primary care visits for the rest of 2020. In addition, the company is waiving member costs for outpatient, non-facility-based behavioral health visits through the end of year.
Behavioral health issues, like depression, may be exacerbated because of the pandemic.
By eliminating these costs, members can re-engage with their physicians for primary care and behavioral health needs whether in-person or virtually.
The company is also delivering safety kits to members' homes that include masks and health-advice information.
THE LARGER TREND
The announcement follows new company COVID-19 prevention standards the company announced this week for its senior-focused primary care subsidiaries.
Many insurers have waived out-of-pocket costs related to testing and treatment for the coronavirus, and some, such as Humana, have waived cost-sharing for inpatient care.
Humana has also expanded telehealth services for at-home care, connected at-risk members with food delivery and expanded pharmacy deliveries.
ON THE RECORD
Bruce Broussard, president and CEO of Humana said, "These actions are the latest in a series of efforts we're taking to support Humana members and help them best manage their chronic conditions and other health issues and ensure that we're living up to our commitment to meet their needs. By supporting members' safety and lowering financial barriers, we can also help facilitate the re-opening of the healthcare system and help bolster the economy."
Twitter: @SusanJMorse
Email the writer: susan.morse@himssmedia.com
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