COVID-19 Initiative Dates

Updated Oct. 28, 2021

We updated this notice to reflect that the Interfacility Transfer without Prior Authorization accommodation was reinstated on Aug. 23, 2021 and expired on Oct. 31, 2021.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has taken steps to make access to the testing and treatment for our members easier and less expensive during this national health emergency.

The chart below indicates these initiatives, and its current status. We will continue to monitor the situation and update as needed. Check our provider site and our COVID-19 Related News for the latest information.

Initiative

Start Date

End Date

Chest CT Scan without Prior Authorization

March 2, 2020

Expired Dec. 31, 2020

COVID-19 Testing Cost-Share Waiver

March 7, 2020

End of Health and Human Services (HHS) public health emergency

COVID-19 Testing-Related Visits Cost-Share Waiver

March 18, 2020

End of HHS public health emergency

COVID-19 Treatment Cost -Share Waiver

April 1, 2020

Expired Dec. 31, 2020*

Credentialing Simplified

April 3, 2020

End of HHS public health emergency

Interfacility Transfer without Prior Authorization

Reinstated Aug. 23, 2021

Expired to Oct. 31, 2021

Prior Authorization Extension

Services scheduled between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2020

Expired Dec. 31, 2020

Telemedicine/Telehealth Expansion, Cost-Share Waiver

March 10, 2020

Expired Dec. 31, 2020 - Members access to the expanded telemedicine services.

Expired Dec. 31, 2020 - The cost-share waiver for commercial and retail members. Copays, deductibles and coinsurance apply effective Jan 1, 2021.

The cost-share waiver will expire at the end of the HHS public health emergency for Medicare members.

 

*Services that were originally scheduled to end May 31, 2020