Vaccine coverage. COVID-19 vaccines are an important step in slowing the spread of the virus. As vaccines are approved, AmeriHealth New Jersey will cover the cost of administering them with no cost share (such as co-pays, deductibles, coinsurance) for members regardless of where the vaccine is given. View our COVID-19 FAQs for more details.
Vaccine approval. The vaccines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Emergency Use Authorization, though widespread availability of a vaccine likely will not occur for months. Distribution of the vaccine is controlled by the federal government, and they collaborate with local and state governments and Departments of Health on distribution. AmeriHealth New Jersey does not control the availability or distribution of any vaccines.
Wear a mask. COVID-19 cases are on the rise, locally and nationally. Public officials and health experts are urging us to use face coverings whenever we go out. The virus mainly spreads from droplets released into the air when we cough, sneeze, or talk. Whether you show signs of illness or not, masks prevent these droplets from reaching others and reduce their risk of getting sick.
Practice social distancing. Limit close contact with anyone outside of your household. Even if you’re wearing a mask, it’s still recommended you stay at least six feet from others when in public, or about two arms’ length apart.
Wash your hands regularly. The virus can also spread from touching recently contaminated surfaces and then touching your face. Washing your hands is one of the most importance defenses against the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses. Keep hand sanitizer on you for when you don’t have access to soap and water.
Check your symptoms. If you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever, cough, or have trouble breathing, call your doctor. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more details on symptoms.
Testing is covered.¹ AmeriHealth New Jersey will cover the cost for diagnostic and antibody testing until 90 days after the end of both the state of emergency and public health emergency declared by the State of New Jersey. Learn more about the differences between diagnostic and antibody tests in this infographic.
Talk to a doctor from anywhere.² All in-network telemedicine services are covered at no cost until 90 days after the end of both the state of emergency and public health emergency declared by the State of New Jersey. You can also schedule a same-day appointment with a doctor 24/7 with MDLIVE¹ at no cost. MDLIVE doctors can assess your symptoms and help with next steps. Register or login at mdlive.amerihealthnj.com.
Specialists are available. The CDC recommends that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. Ask your in-network specialist if your visit can be done over the phone or video. This also includes urgent care, nutritionists, and therapists (occupational, physical, speech). Physical and occupational therapy must be conducted via video.
Treatment is covered². AmeriHealth New Jersey will waive members’ cost for in-network, acute in-patient treatment of COVID-19 through June 30, 2021². Cost sharing will be applied to post-acute care (e.g. skilled nursing, rehabilitation and long term acute care facilities), outpatient treatment, prescription drugs, ambulance transportation to a post-acute setting, and out of network care.
Pre-authorizations temporarily waived. Pre-authorization is currently not required for any acute, in-patient admissions from an in-network Emergency Department for a COVID-19 diagnosis through April 30, 2021. Facilities are still required to notify AmeriHealth New Jersey.
Coverage for pulse oximeters. Pulse oximeters are small, portable devices that monitor oxygen levels in the blood and pulse rate. To help monitor members who have a COVID‑19 diagnosis or are recovering from COVID‑19, AmeriHealth New Jersey will cover consumer‑grade pulse oximeters that are prescribed by your doctor and purchased through an in-network supplier. Member cost sharing will be waived through June 30, 2021.
Keep your health on track. As doctors’ offices re-open, talk with your doctor if you delayed an elective procedure and need to reschedule. Be sure to make an appointment with your doctor if it’s time for your annual check-up or preventive health screenings too.
Check your medications. Check to make sure you have enough medications. Call your doctor if you need refills.
Get Rx delivery. Many neighborhood pharmacies are now offering free home delivery. View a list of locations.
Feeling stressed? Community health outbreaks may cause stress and anxiety You can get On To Better Health, our online program for conditions like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Our holistic wellness program, Embrace Well-being, also provides incentives and tools to help you get well and resources to help you stay well. Login to your account at amerihealthnj.com.
Virtual visits for mental health.² If you have mental health benefits through AmeriHealth New Jersey, you can talk to an in-network mental health counselor online or on the phone at no cost. Call the number on your ID card or visit amerihealthnj.com to find a provider.
AmeriHealth New Jersey is committed to providing its members with comprehensive information and resources on COVID-19. These videos from our Senior Medical Director, Dr. Frank Urbano discuss important health and wellness topics related to COVID-19.
Are you a business owner or broker? Check out our COVID-19 Business Hub.
Are you a doctor or health system? Visit the COVID-19 Provider Hub.
Sign up for AmeriHealth New Jersey updates and information. Get connected today.
¹The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act mandate that member cost sharing (deductible, co-pays and coinsurance) is waived both in and out-of-network for the testing and diagnosis of COVID-19 through the public health emergency. When the public health emergency referenced by the FFCRA and CARES Act ends, the waiver of cost sharing for out-of-network COVID-19 testing and diagnosis will end. The waiver of cost sharing for in network testing and diagnosis of COVID-19 will continue until 90 days after the end of both the state of emergency and public health emergency declared by the State of New Jersey in response to COVID-19. For High Deductible Health Plans, in-network cost sharing waivers for inpatient COVID-19 treatment detailed above will remain in effect through the public health emergency unless prohibited by law.
²If you have coverage through your employer, benefits and coverages may vary. Please check with them about how these programs apply.
