Covid-19 Member Resource Center

Frequently asked questions

Updated April 11, 2023

For nearly three years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) has worked with our members and providers to ease some of the financial stress and burdens during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the scheduled end of the declared public health emergency, BCBSKS will be aligning the coverage of COVID-19 prevention and treatment with other infectious diseases. Below are some helpful FAQs to help you understand the changes that will be effective May 12, 2023. For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19, please visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website.

Treatment

  • As of Jan. 1, 2022, BCBSKS members are responsible for member cost-sharing (co-pays, deductibles) for COVID-19 treatment. This includes coverage for treatment administered at a doctor’s office, telehealth, urgent care facility and emergency room, as well as in-patient hospital stays.

Vaccines

  • Coverage of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, including any administration fees, will be covered as part of the Affordable Care Act's preventative benefits with no cost-sharing (co-pays, deductibles), when in network. There are some plans that are not covered by the ACA. Check your contract and benefits information in BlueAccess for details on how preventive services are covered by your specific plan.
  • If your last COVID-19 booster was prior to Sept. 2022, your protection from the virus may have weakened and you should consider getting an additional booster.

Testing and related services

  • Members will now be responsible for member cost-sharing (co-pays, deductibles) for coverage of all COVID-19 testing and antibody testing. This includes diagnostic testing and related services, as well as antibody testing and related services.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) tests will not be covered as part of the member's benefits. Members may pay for these on their own or use plans such as their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to purchase OTC tests.
  • Related services refer to additional testing and treatment provided during urgent care, emergency room, or in-person or telehealth provider visits that result in an order for or administration of a diagnostic test for COVID-19. Examples include, but are not limited to, flu tests and respiratory illness tests.

Telehealth/Telemedicine

  • Members are responsible for cost-sharing (co-pays, deductibles), and should check their specific plan benefits for details around their telehealth coverage.

Infusion Therapy

  • Members will now be responsible for member cost-sharing (co-pays, deductibles) for coverage of infusion therapy as a treatment for COVID-19.

Out-of-network providers

  • If you seek COVID-19 treatment or testing from a doctor or hospital (also called a provider) who is out of network (also known as a non-contracting provider) with BCBSKS, it may result in additional costs for you as the patient. It is important to “know before you go.” Visit bcbsks.com/find-a-doctor or call 800-432-3990 (toll-free) to make sure your doctor or hospital is contracted with us. However, if you have a medical emergency, always seek care at the closest emergency room.