New information about COVID-19 vaccines is coming out every day. There’s still a lot to learn, and you can count on us for the latest details. Here, we’ll talk about how your plan will cover your vaccination, what to expect once vaccines are available, and what steps being taken to make sure the vaccine is safe.
- Medicare and Medicaid members will receive the vaccine at no cost.
If you have Medicare, Medicaid or CHIP, you won’t have to pay for your COVID-19 vaccine. Members will not have out-of-pocket costs during this national public health emergency.
- Vaccine availability and distribution will take time.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized some COVID-19 vaccines and is working quickly to approve others. Learn more here.
Each state will decide how and when to distribute vaccines. People at most risk of contracting COVID-19, or developing complications of illness will likely receive vaccinations first. Right now, the CDC recommends that healthcare workers and residents of nursing homes and long-term-care facilities be the first Americans to receive the vaccine. Vaccination should be more widely available in early to mid-2021.
- The vaccine will be safe and effective.
COVID-19 vaccination will help keep you from getting COVID-19. Many thousands of people across the United States took part in research trials over many months. These trials show the FDA whether a vaccine is safe and effective, which it must be certain of before it will authorize or approve a vaccine for public use.
Researchers studied vaccine reactions and potential side effects throughout the trials. Their studies will continue after the vaccine receives approval. The FDA, CDC, and vaccine manufacturers will continue to monitor safety and quality.
If you have health insurance with us, you can stay informed about where and when you may be able to get your COVID-19 vaccine by activating your online account. Find your plan’s website or download your health plan app at myhealthplanaccount.com.