COVID-19 health-plan response: SummaCare’s top priority is the health and safety of its members

Posted April 30, 2020 by Charles A. Zonfa, MD, FACOG | Chief Medical Officer and Vice President, Network Development and Contracting

SummaCare is here to serve and support our members — especially in this unprecedented time of crisis. As we navigate changes to our everyday lives amid the recent COVID-19 pandemic, know that your well-being and health coverage remain our top priority. 

That’s why we are actively monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak as cases continue to increase across the country and putting measures in place to protect our members, while also providing prompt access to diagnostic testing and treatment.

Here are 3 steps we’re taking now to adapt our health coverage to ensure your health and safety. These changes are effective through the duration of the public health emergency.

1. Waiving cost-sharing for provider-ordered COVID-19 diagnostic testing.
SummaCare is waiving any copays and deductibles related to provider-ordered testing for COVID-19, regardless of where the test is ordered and performed. 

So, if you’re over the age of 65 and have possible symptoms of COVID-19 or believe you’ve been exposed, contact your doctor’s office to determine the need for testing. If you’re 65 or younger and are experiencing symptoms, visit Summa Health’s free online screening process. You also can call the Summa Health 24/7 COVID-19 hotline to speak with a trained nurse at 234.867.6314. 

Remember, for your protection please don’t travel to a medical facility unless you are instructed to do so. 

2. Covering telehealth visits performed by SummaCare providers.
SummaCare is now covering the cost of telehealth services for a wide range of your healthcare needs. Telehealth services are a great option to still get the care you need, while staying safe in the comfort of your own home and avoiding exposure and potential spread of the virus.  

• Telehealth services will be covered regardless of your location.
• Telehealth services coverage will expand to include audio telephone only.

In addition, most SummaCare members have access to Teladoc®. You’re covered to speak with a licensed physician by web, phone or mobile app for general medicine, dermatology and behavioral health visits, which can be scheduled 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

You can visit www.teladoc.com or call 800.835.2362 (TTY: 855.636.1578) to set up your Teladoc account. The Teladoc provider will give you further instruction.

Be sure to contact your provider to learn more about available telehealth options. 

3. Allowing early refills, should you want to receive your medication early. 
To ensure you have access to all of your medications you need during this time, SummaCare is allowing early refills. You can receive the plan allowance for days' supply at retail pharmacies, specialty pharmacies and through mail order. Be aware you will be responsible for applicable copays. 

If you are out of refills, meaning no valid refills are left on your prescription, there’s no need to worry. The Ohio State Board of Pharmacy has granted an Extension of Emergency Refills to pharmacists in Ohio.

Have questions about your symptoms?
Social distancing is an extremely important measure we can all take to lessen the spread of this virus. 

However, if you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms,  contact your doctor’s office. Do not travel to a medical facility unless you are instructed to do so. You can also call the Summa Health 24/7 COVID-19 hotline to speak with a trained nurse at 234.867.6314.

For the latest COVID-19 information and additional details on SummaCare coverage, please visit www.summacare.com/coronavirus.


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