Anthem Blue Cross Plans Will Waive Out-Of-Pocket Costs For Coronavirus Treatment

Anthem is the latest health insurer to waive customer cost-sharing and co-payments for all treatments related to the Coronavirus strain COVID-19.

The nation’s second largest health plan, which operates Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans in 14 states, will expand coverage effective Wednesday, April 1, for “members in its affiliated health plans undergoing treatment related to a COVID-19 diagnosis,” the company announced Wednesday night.

“During these challenging times, Anthem stands by our legacy and commitment to living our values and supporting those we serve,” Anthem president and chief executive Gail Boudreaux said. “By applying our approach for innovation, compassion and inclusion, we are focused on the issues needed most in this time of crisis, including affordability and access to care for those dealing with treatment related to COVID-19.”

The coverage moves unveiled by Anthem follow similar moves announced Sunday at the White House by Cigna and Humana and also by UnitedHealth Group’s UnitedHealthcare health insurance unit. The actions by health insurers will likely bring lower cost medical care service to thousands of Americans given the rapid spread of the virus across the country.