FYI regarding end of COVID declaration
May 10, 2023
With the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) expiring on May 11, 2023, We wanted to update you on some changes that may affect your insurance coverage.
- COVID-19 vaccines: Although COVID-19 vaccines will eventually move to the commercial market, the U.S. government will continue to purchase and distribute vaccines after May 11. As a result, physicians can continue to order them for free, and you can receive them free of charge through your health insurance.
- COVID-19 tests: Most Americans covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance during the pandemic were able to receive free COVID-19 tests and vaccines. Once the emergency ends, Medicare beneficiaries generally will face out-of-pocket costs for at-home testing, although state Medicaid programs will continue covering tests ordered by a physician. Private insurance users may have to pay for lab tests.
- Medicaid enrollees: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act required Medicaid programs to keep beneficiaries continuously enrolled. That protection ended on April 1, 2023 because of the Consolidated Appropriations Act. Now, enrollees in some states who received Medicaid coverage for the past three years could lose their Medicaid, an event some have termed an “Unwinding” of Medicaid. That said, if you or a loved one is covered by Medicaid, be on the lookout for communication from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and please reach out to me if you have questions or concerns.
- Telehealth: In the wake of the pandemic, the use of telehealth practices has grown — and it has been an essential lifeline for individuals in rural areas and those with limited mobility. Thankfully, many benefits and services provided during the pandemic have been made permanent, such as Medicare patients' access to telehealth services for behavioral or mental health care. Access to other telehealth benefits and services has also been extended through December 31, 2024.
As 2025 begins, it’s time to focus on improving health and well-being. Here are some simple yet impactful resolutions to make this year healthier: 1. Prioritize Preventive Care Schedule check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations early to catch potential health concerns before they escalate. 2. Move Daily Stay active with activities you enjoy, like walking, yoga, or dancing. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. 3. Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods Add colorful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to your diet. Small swaps, like choosing water over sugary drinks, can make a difference. 4. Care for Your Mental Health Dedicate time to reduce stress with meditation, journaling, or time in nature. Seek professional support if needed. 5. Improve Sleep Habits Commit to consistent bedtimes, relaxing routines, and minimizing screens before bed. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep nightly. 6. Strengthen Connections Nurture relationships with friends and family through meaningful interactions. Social ties boost happiness and health. 7. Set Realistic Goals Break big goals into smaller, achievable steps and celebrate progress. 8. Stay Hydrated Drink at least 8 cups of water daily. Enhance it with a slice of lemon or cucumber for flavor. 9. Limit Screen Time Take breaks, create screen-free zones, and replace digital activities with offline ones. 10. Give Back Volunteering or helping others enhances your sense of purpose and well-being. The Bottom Line Focus on small, sustainable changes for lasting health benefits. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling 2025
In today’s digital age, managing your health insurance has never been easier—and creating a profile on your health insurance carrier’s portal is the key to unlocking this convenience. Whether you’re new to a plan or have been with the same carrier for years, setting up an online account can save you time, reduce stress, and provide quick access to critical information. Here’s why having a portal profile is a must for every policyholder. 1. 24/7 Access to Your Plan Details Once you create a profile, you can log in anytime to view your plan’s coverage details, including deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. This eliminates the need to sift through paperwork or wait for customer service during business hours. 2. Easily Access ID Cards Misplaced your health insurance ID card? No worries. Most carrier portals allow you to download digital versions of your ID cards instantly. This is especially helpful during doctor visits, pharmacy runs, or when managing a family member’s care. 3. Track Your Claims and Benefits Understanding what’s been paid, what’s pending, and what you owe is essential. With a portal profile, you can monitor your claims in real time and review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements without waiting for mail delivery. This transparency helps you stay on top of your healthcare finances. 4. Find In-Network Providers Looking for a doctor, specialist, or facility within your plan’s network? Carrier portals often feature search tools that allow you to locate in-network providers quickly. Staying in-network ensures you maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs. 5. Manage Prescriptions Many portals include tools to review your prescription drug coverage, locate preferred pharmacies, and even refill medications. If your plan uses mail-order pharmacy services, you can manage and track deliveries right from your portal account. 6. Receive Important Notifications Carriers often send critical updates and reminders through their portals, such as policy changes, claims updates, or renewal notices. Creating a profile ensures you don’t miss out on timely information that could affect your coverage or healthcare decisions. 7. Save Time on Customer Support Need to update your address, change coverage details, or check on a claim? Instead of waiting on hold with customer service, you can make many changes and inquiries directly through your portal. This self-service option saves you valuable time and simplifies plan management. 8. Stay Organized Your health insurance portal acts as a central hub for all your healthcare information. From claims history to medical expenses, having everything organized in one place makes it easier to track spending and plan for future healthcare needs. Take Charge of Your Health Insurance Creating a profile in your health insurance carrier portal empowers you to take control of your healthcare experience. With easy access to your plan details, claims, ID cards, and more, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and make the most of your benefits. If you haven’t already, take a moment to register today—your future self will thank you!