Blue Cross recognized as Certified Age-Friendly Employer for valuing the knowledge and experiences of associates over 50
May 6, 2024
By Stacy Van Meter - Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Employer Brand & People Analytics
By Dr. Mark Steffen - Senior Vice President, Medical Management and Chief Medical Officer
What to know about the COVID-19 vaccine and Blue Cross MN coverage
December 15, 2020As a matter of great relief to Americans, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provided emergency use authorization for the first vaccines for COVID-19 and initial rounds of immunizations are underway.
Having access to this vaccine is an important step in the fight against COVID-19. It is important to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota that all our members are able to be vaccinated as they become eligible. We would like to share with you what we know at this time and provide you with links to credible resources to answer top questions about the COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccine available at no cost to Blue Cross MN members
Price will not be a barrier for any Blue Cross member to receive a vaccination. Blue Cross will cover the full cost (including deductibles, copayments and coinsurance) for our members to receive an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine. For the duration of the public health emergency, this coverage applies to all health care providers, regardless of their network status.
More detailed information about Blue Cross coverage for COVID-19, including the vaccination, is available at bluecrossmn.com/coronavirus under “Blue Cross MN member commitments for COVID 19.”
Timing and eligibility for vaccination
A question at the top of everyone’s mind is “When can I be vaccinated?” The timing for vaccine eligibility is determined by state health departments based on information and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Minnesota Department of Health has information on vaccine availability for Minnesotans on their website.
The currently approved vaccine is authorized for use in those age 16 and older. Information about the vaccine including who should and should not get the vaccine can be found on the FDA website. While exact timing for eligibility is being determined as increasing supplies become available, we do know the vaccine will be rolled out in phases.
Phase 1: Initial supplies of the vaccine will be limited and provided to prioritized populations. In the first phase that will be health care providers and residents of long-term care facilities.
Phase 2: As the supply increases, other high-risk populations will be added. The timing for that will depend on vaccine production and distribution.
Phase 3: The vaccine will become more widely available to the general public
The first COVID-19 vaccines will not be given to individuals under age 16 and studies in this age group are ongoing.
Feel confident that the vaccine is safe
We want all our members to have trust and confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective. Vaccines are widely considered one of the greatest breakthroughs in modern medicine. They have effectively halted the spread of diseases like polio, measles, chicken pox and many more. Simply put, vaccines are a proven way to prevent disease. The CDC website has a great overview that addresses common questions about vaccinations.
It is a testament to modern medicine that a safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19 was able to be created so quickly. The thorough review by the FDA and its advisory committee made up of independent scientific and public health experts from around the country provides the confidence we all want in the safety of the vaccine and its ability to prevent the disease. If you have any questions about your eligibility as the vaccine supply increases, please contact your health care provider.
Building trust for the COVID-19 vaccination in all communities
Blue Cross is committed to ensuring that Minnesotans in all communities trust the COVID-19 vaccination.
Understandably, due to our nation’s history of medical experimentation, systemic racism, discrimination and unequal access to quality health care, distrust in the COVID-19 vaccine remains high within Black, Indigenous and communities of color (BIPOC communities), as was recently reported by the Star Tribune.
These communities, who have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 due to existing health inequities, are more vulnerable to the virus and show higher rates of hospitalizations and death. It is imperative that we prioritize race and health equity in our efforts to ensure all our members are able to confidently receive the vaccine.
Stay diligent: wear a mask and practice safe physical distancing
While news of an FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccination does bring great hope, it is important to continue to practice physical distancing and continue to wear a mask. These measures will not change for quite some time. We will look to the guidance of the CDC and other public health authorities to determine when they will no longer be needed.
Also, don’t forget to get your flu vaccine. It is not too late and a flu shot is especially important this year, as I shared in this earlier blog post.
Best resources
The following are resources I have bookmarked for the most accurate and up-to-date information on COVID-19 and, specifically, COVID-19 vaccines:
- CDC | COVID-19 (Coronavirus) | Vaccines
- Minnesota Department of Health | COVID-19 | Vaccines
- Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine
- Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers | Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine
The CDC has detailed information on their website regarding common questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. You can find answers to important topics including:
- Facts about COVID-19 vaccination
- The benefits of getting vaccinated
- Ensuring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines
- Ensuring COVID-19 vaccines work
- FAQs about the COVID-19 vaccination
In addition, I recommend visiting the COVID-19 landing page on bluecrossmn.com for detailed information on how Blue Cross MN is responding to the pandemic and our commitments to our members.
Editor’s note: In an earlier blog post, Dr. Steffen offered important recommendations around planning for the holidays in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. You can read that here.
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Is there any indication that taking the vaccine will be mandatory to leave the country, or what countries might mandate that to allow US citizens into their country?
How does this vaccine intersect with those that are on meds?
How does this interact with the flu vaccine? Can they be taken at the same time?
Two questions? Does anyone have a definition yet as to what determines high risk population? Also, if my wife and I decide to go to Florida for 3 to 4 months starting in January, will we have to come back to Minnesota to get the vaccination?
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Why is the vaccine administered in two doses? Is a single, full dose too potent for our bodies?
A fact sheet about the vaccine is available here: https://www.fda.gov/media/144414/download
And additional details are also available here: https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine
We winter in another state. Will our eligibility for a vaccine be tied to MN, our home state? Or can I get vaccine in our winter home state?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
What if I'm out of town when my age group (I'm 69) is allowed to get the vaccine? Can I take it in another state or do I have to return home to take it? Thanks
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
I can't get the flu shot. I've had 4 and have ended up in the hospital all 4 times. With severe vomiting and bowl problems. I'm terrified of this shot
We understand your concerns and recommend you speak with your doctor about questions related to your health and this vaccine.
How is it made? What was used to make the vaccine?
We recommend you reference the following resources for details on the vaccine:
https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine
https://www.fda.gov/media/144414/download
If I have antibodies for covid, am I protected for a time and does that mean I have had covid?
As recommended by the CDC: Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, people may be advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with COVID-19 before. More information is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits/facts.html#:~:text=Due%20to%20the%20severe%20health,COVID%2D19%20before.
We spend the winter in Arizona, will we be able to receive the vaccine in Arizona at the time it is available?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Six weeks ago I tested positive (2 tests: saliva and nasopharyngeal), had the classic symptoms for 2weeks and took another 2 weeks to feel good again. Am I essentially immune from getting and giving covid? Should I consider not taking the vaccine?
As recommended by the CDC: Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, people may be advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with COVID-19 before. More information is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits/facts.html#:~:text=Due%20to%20the%20severe%20health,COVID%2D19%20before.
Do I need a vaccine if I believe I had a minor case of covid?
As recommended by the CDC: Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, people may be advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine even if they have been sick with COVID-19 before. More information is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits/facts.html#:~:text=Due%20to%20the%20severe%20health,COVID%2D19%20before.
My wife and I are in mid-80s, in fair health, want to know when we can obtain the covid shot
We recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
I will probably will be in Florda when my time for the vaccination comes up. Will I be able to get my vaccination in Florida?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
You state that phase 2 will be for high risk patients. How will you notify these high risk people? Do you know who they are based on looking through their medical records. Are the clinics looking through the medical records and compiling a list?
Thank you.
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
How will I be contacted about being vacinated?
We recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
I am 81 years old. Live alone! Will I be notified from my clinic when I can get the vaccine?
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines:
Can I leave the state and get the vaccine.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Where can I get a Coronavirus test?
You recommend you reach out to your doctor. You can also find more information here for testing within Minnesota: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/testsites/index.html
My husband and I (both under BCBS) are snowbirds. I have read that we could be offered the vaccine while we are here in our winter residence. Does BCBS cover the cost to the administer of the vaccine?
Will we be able to get the second dose in our home state if that is how the timing works out?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
We are currently in Arizona (NW Valley of Phoenix) and will be here until May 15, 2021. Both of us are near 80 years of age and in good health.
What suggestions do you have for BC/BS card carriers for getting the vaccine?
Thanks.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
If we are in Arizona for the winter, can we get the vaccination down there?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Is the vaccine safe for individuals with an auto immune disease such as Rheunmatoid Arthritis?
We recommend you speak to your doctor about questions specific to your health.
We are Minnesota residents wintering in Az.
Can we get the shot in Az?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
How will it be determined who is a member of a high risk group for phase 2 eligibility? Obviously, age is objective and easy to establish, but who will determine what preexisting conditions are relevant, who will determine how to rank such conditions and how will eligible members be identified?
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
I'm a 83 yr old Winter Texan from Minn. my wife will be 79 this Dec. and has COPD. will we have to wait til end of April when we return to Minn. our permanent home.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
I am 77 years old and have a heart condition, A-fib and also COPD. Would I be considered high risk? Thanks for your time
We recommend you reach out to your doctor for questions specific to your health.
Will I be covered if I get Coronavirus and need care or hospitalization?
With no cost to the member, Blue Cross will pay for the appropriate medically necessary testing and in-network care — including hospitalization — for fully insured1 employer, individual and Medicare members. These members will not have any copay, coinsurance or deductible costs for COVID-19 testing or care. Self-insured2 employers have the flexibility to apply the same structure. This varies by employer. More information is available at bluecrossmn.com/coronavirus.
Thank you for providing this information. I look forward to occasional updates. 😷
Thank you for providing this important service and all the contact info.
How will I be notified when I can receive the vaccine?
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
How will I be notified when I can get the shot?
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
We also recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send.
Will I be contacted when and where to get the vacinne or do I just go in and get the shot? I'm over 65.
We recommend that you reach out to your health care provider regarding questions specific to your health, eligibility and any notifications that they may plan to send
Eligibility timelines are determined by each state’s health department. We recommend you look for information from the health department in the state where you reside.
Specific to Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Health continues to update their site as new eligibility information becomes available. Information from the Minnesota Department of Health can be found here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/plan.html
In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health has released phase 1 guidelines: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vaccine/phase1aguide.pdf
How will getting vaccinated if we are out of MN?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Very helpful.
Thank you.
I have all kinds of allergies, food, chemicals, bee stings, drugs. I have to carry an epi-pen. Will I be able to get the shot safely ?
We recommend you speak with your doctor to address your specific health concerns.
I am going to Arizona for 3 months . Will I be able to get the vacccine out there if I am a resident of Minnesota not Arizona
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Do I need to be tested before I get the vaccine?
Thank you for this information about the COVID vaccination and for your on-going pandemic coverage. I have a question, that perhaps you can answer. My husband and I are both BCBS enrollees who live in MN and winter in AZ. If the vaccination becomes available to us while we are in AZ, will we be able to access it in AZ, and will BCBS still pay for it?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Thank you for all the information.
I will be watching my email for the information I need to know.
Re: when and where to get my shot.
We are snowbirds and travel for the winter, how would we get the vaccine if we are in another state?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
After receiving the vaccine, how long before it is effective? A week, 2 weeks, or just days?
From the CDC: We won’t know how long immunity lasts until we have a vaccine and more data on how well it works. More information is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html
What if I'm out of town (California until April) when the vaccine is available to me?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
I understood that the federal government is covering the cost of this vaccine – not insurance. I have a relative without coverage. Are you paying for it or our taxes?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that “vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to the American people at no cost. However, vaccination providers may be able to charge administration fees for giving the shot. Vaccination providers can get this fee reimbursed by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund”. More information on this is available here: https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readiness/funding-covid.htm
We are "MN snowbirds" in Niceville, FL till April. Will "Minnesota" Blue Cross/Blue Shield cover the full cost of the hospital/doctor visit here in Florida?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
We are in Phoenix for the winter. Where do I find out the network of healthcare providers I can use?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Can you tell me where I can get a covid-19 test that is acceptable on my arrival in Hawaii. Departing from Minnesota
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Question: Spouse and I are planning to go/stay at Ft myers, Fl area for three months at a house in residential area,; wondering for sure as we are over 65 can we still get our 'shots' say in Fl. when avail or must we get in Mn. ? Near Walgreens and CVS there. Is that a question that can be answered at this time? thank you, Gary/Chris Schuldt.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
My husband is diabetic. Does that mean he can get the shot sooner?
We recommend your husband speak with his physician about timing and eligibility questions.
Hope to get a vaccine because I have diabetes.
After I get vaccinated, and I wait 6 months or so, will a blood work up in a general physical examination show if my immune system is still generating antibodies?
When will I be getting my shot. I have a pre-existing condition (cancer) and over the age of 74.
We recommend you speak to your physician about questions specific to your health.
There are many people asking about getting the vaccine if they are out of state when it’s their turn. Could you let us know if that is the case? Also, what direction the thinking seems to be on that situation? Thanks
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
We winter in AZ for 4 months starting Jan 1st, can we get the shot there or do we have to come back to MN? My wife3 and I are both 76.
Thank you
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
We are wintering in Yuma,AZ until May 2021. Our home state is MN. Our ages are 70 & 73 so we are interested in knowing how the vaccine will be delivered to us. Appreciate BCBS keeping us informed.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Do have to get the vaccine in the state in which I live ? Or can I get it in a state in which I go to for the winter?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
We also are going to FL for 3 months. Can we get vaccination there or must we wait till we return to MN?
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
Please answer all of the inquiries about whether Minnesota "snow birds" will be able to get vaccinated in Florida and/or Arizona. So many seniors are concerned about missing the opportunity to be vaccinated while they are leaving the cold weather for the warmer states. We need answers and our doctors don't have them either.
Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, Blue Cross will provide coverage with no member cost-sharing for the administration of FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines. This is applicable for in-network and out-of-network providers in all 50 states for the duration of the public health emergency. We recommend you follow up with a provider in your area where you will be for more information on timing and eligibility for you to receive the vaccine as it becomes available.
In previous months, there was a mention of people with certain health conditions (like heart disease) would become eligible after the main priority group. Now I don't see any mention of that anywhere. Have you seen anything about that?
Eligibility is determined by the Minnesota Department of Health. You can find more details here: https://mn.gov/covid19/vaccine/distribution/index.jsp
Is getting tested for the Covid antibodies covered by BCBS?
Yes, or the duration of the COVID-19 health crisis, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will cover FDA-authorized antibody (serological) tests with no member cost share when ordered or administered by an attending healthcare provider (for Medicare members, tests can be ordered and/or administered by any health care professional who is authorized under state law). Consultation with your health provider is very important as the FDA advises that antibody testing should not be used for diagnosis of COVID-19. Answers to more coverage questions can be found at https://blog.bluecrossmn.com/your-health/coronavirus_faqs/