Coronavirus & Your Healthcare

LifeWise wants to help you get the care you need right now and for the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

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UPDATE: October 26, 2023

How COVID-19 testing is covered

  • The federal government began offering free COVID test kits September 25, 2023. Visit covidtests.gov to order your free kits.
  • The purchase of over-the-counter COVID home test kits are no longer covered under your health plan.
  • COVID testing is available in person via labs or providers and cost shares may apply.
  • Most health plans don't cover COVID testing for reasons such as: return to work or school, caretaker work requirements, contact tracing, travel requirements, community management, government requested, and antibody testing. Contact your doctor if you feel you need a test.

STAYING HEALTHY

Vaccines for COVID

Who can get the updated vaccine?

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approved two mRNA vaccines, from Pfizer and Moderna, for those 6 months and older. The updated Novavax vaccine was recently approved for those ages 12 and older.

The recommendations include:

  • At least one dose of an updated mRNA (Pfizer or Moderna) vaccine against COVID this year for those ages 5 and older
  • For those 6 months through 4 years, who may be getting their vaccines for the first time, two doses of a Moderna vaccine and three doses of a Pfizer COVID vaccine, with at least one of the doses being an updated 2023 shot are recommended.
  • People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should have had at least three doses of COVID vaccine, with at least one of those doses being an updated shot. They also have the option to get an additional updated vaccine later in the year.
  • People ages 12 and older previously vaccinated with any COVID vaccine can consider the updated Novavax vaccine instead of the mRNA vaccines. If not previously vaccinated, two doses are recommended.

Under the terms of the Affordable Care Act, people with commercial health insurance plans through the government or their employer can receive vaccines at no cost.

For more information about vaccines, visit the CDC COVID-19 page.

Where can I get vaccinated?

Vaccines and boosters are available at most pharmacies and through your own provider's office. Sign in to your account at lifewise.com/my-account, go to the Benefits menu, and select Find a Doctor.

Vaccine cost

Cost = $0 for you

$0 for members with preventive care benefits in the United States.

Additional resources

CDC website: Find flu and COVID-19 vaccines on vaccines.gov or text your ZIP code to GETVAX (438829).

Vaccine locator: Vaccinate WA: Find COVID-19 Vaccine Providers Near You. This a great option for finding vaccines for kids.

Treatments for COVID

What treatments are available?

There are several antiviral and antibody treatments available that can reduce your chances of being hospitalized or dying from COVID-19, especially if you have underlying health conditions that may make you more vulnerable. Treatment must be started within days after you first develop symptoms to be effective. COVID-19 treatments are available through your provider and cost shares may apply.

Visit COVID-19 Treatments and Medications on the CDC site for more information about the treatments currently available.

How do I get treatment?

Your first step in getting treatment for COVID-19 is to get tested. You can use an at-home test or your provider’s office. Since some treatments might have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking, it’s important to talk with your provider or pharmacist to make sure the medication being used is right for you. For more information about treatments, visit the CDC COVID-19 Treatments and Medications page.

How much does it cost?

COVID treatments may be subject to the usual cost shares and deductibles.

Additional resources

LifeWise follows guidance from the state and federal governments. For up-to-date information, go to:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Key dates: Anything I should know related to COVID benefits and coverage?

Yes. Cost shares may apply when receiving COVID diagnostic testing or COVID treatment.

Over the counter COVID test kits are no longer covered under your health plan. The federal government began offering free test kits on September 25, 2023. Visit covidtests.gov to order your free kits.

Should I get a flu shot?

The CDC, and many medical practitioners, are strongly recommending everyone get a flu shot this year. With the flu almost non-existent last year due to the stay-at-home orders, masking and handwashing, many are expecting this flu season to come back strongly. According to the CDC, it is safe to get both your COVID vaccine and the flu vaccine at the same time.

What's the difference between the flu and COVID?

Both are contagious respiratory illnesses, but there are differences. Read CDC details on flu and COVID signs and symptoms differences.