Blue Cross Blue Shield Copay for Blood Tests: What You Need to Know

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread globally, it's essential to stay informed about the availability of testing options and what you can expect in terms of cost-sharing. If you're a Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) member, you may be wondering about the copay for blood tests. Here's what you need to know.

COVID-19 Tests Available Without Cost-Sharing

According to BCBS, COVID-19 tests are available without cost-sharing to covered individuals when administered by a healthcare provider such as a nurse, doctor, or pharmacist. This means that you won't have to pay out-of-pocket for the test, regardless of whether it's performed in-network or out-of-network.

Orders Not Picked Up Within 72 Hours Will Be Cancelled

It's essential to note that orders not picked up within 72 hours (about three days) will be cancelled. This is a standard policy across all pharmacies participating in the BCBS network.

Community-Based Testing Sites and Local Health Departments

The Department of Health and Human Services has provided a list of community-based testing sites, which can be found on their website. Additionally, you can contact your local health department for locations that provide over-the-counter tests at no cost.

How to Get Tested at an In-Network Retail Pharmacy

To get tested at an in-network retail pharmacy, follow these steps:

1. Provide your member ID card to the pharmacist and/or pharmacy technician.

2. Answer 'No' to the Medicare/Medicaid question (Medicare does not currently cover OTC COVID-19 tests).

3. Enter all requested information from your health insurance card, including your member ID, RXIIN (BIN), and RXPCN.

4. Select a pharmacy and click on 'At-home COVID-19 tests' to place your online order.

EP Will Cover Up to Eight Tests per Family Member

BCBS will cover up to eight over-the-counter tests for each covered family member every calendar month. This means that you can get tested as many times as needed within the specified timeframe without incurring out-of-pocket costs.

Claim Form and Reimbursement Process

If you purchase a COVID-19 testing kit from an online retailer or an out-of-network pharmacy, you can submit a claim for reimbursement following these steps:

1. Complete the Health Benefits Claim Form.

2. Mail the form along with your receipts for each test purchased to your local BCBS company.

Remember to keep an itemized receipt that clearly shows that your purchase was for a COVID-19 test. If you don't have an itemized receipt, you must send us the barcode (UPC code) from your test(s) packaging.

In conclusion, Blue Cross Blue Shield offers copay-free COVID-19 testing options to its members. By understanding how to get tested at in-network pharmacies and following the reimbursement process for out-of-network purchases, you can stay informed and protected during this pandemic. Remember to keep track of your receipts and follow the necessary steps to ensure timely reimbursement.

Blue cross blue shield copay for blood tests