Effects of COVID-19 on Your A&M System Health Plans

The federal government, state government, and local entities have made various changes to health plan policies in response to COVID-19. Information regarding the coronavirus is changing rapidly and A&M System Benefits Administration is monitoring the news and updates. Below are changes to your health plan and programs in effect at this time:

• As of 03/16, the co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles for COVID-19 testing consistent with guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been waived by the A&M System health plans.
• Express Scripts has authorized payment to pharmacies for up to a 90-day supply of any prescription medication for individuals, regardless of when the prescription was filled, provided the member has refills remaining. This applies to both retail pharmacies and Express Scripts mail-order.
• The MDLIVE virtual visits copay of $20 has been temporarily waived for all services until further notice.
• A&M Care members can receive telemedicine services from their network physicians, who provide it, for medically-necessary, covered medical and behavioral health services for a zero copay until April 30th. The claim must indicate services were provided via telemedicine/telehealth.
• Graduate student employees on the Grad plan can also use telemedicine services via in-network providers who offer the service or via MDLIVE for no copay until April 30 or otherwise extended.
• The A&M System has extended the wellness incentive program completion date to August 31, 2020 and will be adding additional digital activities to everyone’s checklists. There are several checklist activities, such as Well onTarget Self-Management Programs, educational HealthQuests, and MDLIVE registration, that can be completed digitally/virtually and we encourage members to participate in those programs to promote their health and wellbeing during this stressful time. Not all members have the same checklist items and further information can be found on the System Benefits Administration website.
• Due to the closing of day cares and employers directing employees to work from home, enrolled employees are eligible to reduce their dependent day care flexible spending account contributions through a Life Event Benefit Change. They will be able to change their deductions again when they return to work, as it will still be considered a Life Event.

You can find more health and wellness resources about COVID-19 on the System Benefits Administration website.