COVID-19 Information
Updated: August 28, 2024
The COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) officially ended on May 11, 2023. What does that mean to you? We want to assure you that, while some temporary measures have ended, all of the benefits listed in your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) are still fully in place.
This page includes information and resources that will help you continue to protect yourself from COVID-19.
See the latest CDC COVID-19 updates
See the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control.
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COVID-19 Testing
Q: Are COVID-19 tests a Medicare Advantage covered benefit?
Q: I have tests that have passed their expiration date. Can I still use them?
Q: Am I covered for the cost of a COVID-19 test requested by my employer or for other reasons?
Q: Where can I get a COVID-19 test near me?
Find a location here.
Please avoid going to an emergency room (ER) for testing; the ER is for severe illness and injury.
Oral Treatments for COVID-19
Q: How do I know if I should use one of these treatments?
Tell your doctor if you’re taking any drugs or have other illnesses (such as liver or kidney disease or other serious illnesses) to make sure there are no concerns that would keep you from using these medications. Also tell your doctor about your allergies and any vitamins, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
Q: Where can I get one of these medications?
We encourage you to have a caregiver pick up your prescription at the pharmacy to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Q: Is the U.S. government still covering oral anti-viral treatments such as Paxlovid and Lagevrio?
Government-purchased Paxlovid and Lagevrio distribution ended in December 2023. Going forward, health plans will be responsible for covering these oral anti-viral treatments and copays may apply.
Q: What is my cost for Paxlovid?
Paxlovid is a preferred medication on Tier 3 of SCAN’s formulary. Through the Pfizer Patient Assistance Program, SCAN is able to offer members Paxlovid for $0 at any pharmacy during all Part D benefit coverage stages.
If you would like to obtain Paxlovid through a patient assistance program instead of using SCAN, the PAXCESS program through the drug manufacturer is an alternative option members can use. For more information and to apply for the PAXCESS program, please visit https://paxlovid.iassist.com/.
Q: What is my cost for Lagevrio?
Lagevrio is a non-preferred medication on Tier 4 of SCAN’s formulary. This means you will be responsible for a Tier 4 copay, and your copay amount will be affected by the pharmacy you choose and your Part D benefit coverage stage.
If you would like to use Lagevrio, there is a patient assistance program available through the drug’s manufacturer, Merck. Not everyone may be eligible for this program. For more information and eligibility requirements, please visit https://www.merckhelps.com/LAGEVRIO.
More COVID-19 Information
Q: Where can I get the vaccine?
You can get the COVID-19 vaccine and additional updated vaccine doses at the location most convenient for you. This may be your pharmacy, doctor’s office or a location sponsored by your local public health department.
Check the website of the pharmacy you use to see if they have appointments available.
If you are a veteran, your local Veterans Administration may also be offering the COVID vaccine. Spouses and caregivers can also get the vaccine through the VA.
Q: Will COVID-19 vaccines still be covered by SCAN?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines (including approved additional updated vaccine doses) will continue to be covered when received by your doctor or at a pharmacy in the SCAN network. Find a pharmacy near you here.
Q: Does the COVID-19 vaccine have side effects?
While some people feel nothing, others may experience some side effects after receiving the vaccine. This can range from discomfort at the shot site to mild flu symptoms that can last up to three or four days.
You may have similar side effects after receiving additional updated vaccine doses.