Governor Larry Hogan recently declared a State of Emergency as the coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread to Maryland. With currently no vaccine, it is important to follow  preventive care. Here are some ways Maryland is handling the coronavirus and how you can use your coverage to stay healthy.

Understanding your coverage

• Prescriptions - Health insurance companies are required to waive any time restrictions on prescription refills, so individuals can obtain medications before any quarantine.  
• Lab Tests -  Health insurance companies are required to waive cost-sharing, including lab fees, co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles for any visit to test for coronavirus at a doctor’s office, urgent care center, or emergency room.
• Vaccine - Health insurance companies are required to waive any cost-sharing, including co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles for vaccination for coronavirus, when a vaccine becomes available. 
• Telehealth - Health insurance companies are being asked to consider telehealth options. This will help to reduce the likelihood of exposure to and transmission of coronavirus.

Helpful information for you

• While much remains unknown about coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that people who are elderly and who have chronic health conditions appear to be at higher risk for infection. These chronic conditions may include cancer, diabetes, heart disease or any issue that lowers the body’s immunity to germs. 
• Stay informed and seek information from reliable, official sources. Be wary of myths, rumors and misinformation circulating online and elsewhere. Health information shared through social media is frequently inaccurate, unless coming from an official, reliable source such as the CDC, Maryland Department of Health, or local health departments.   
• For more information and frequently asked questions on coronavirus, visit the Maryland Department of Health.