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Limited Government.
Opportunity For All Arizonans.
Healthcare
The COVID-19 pandemic has placed access to health care services at the forefront of the crisis both nationally and at the state level. Whether you are currently covered by insurance, looking for health care coverage options or are eligible for coverage through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment Services, we hope the following resources are helpful.
If you are currently covered by an Arizona insurer, many insurance companies are responding to the health crisis by waiving prior authorizations for medically necessary services to individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, eliminating co-payments for diagnostic testing and telehealth sessions as well as lending assistance with medication refills and finding alternative drugs where pharmacy shortages exist.
Here is what Arizona insurers are doing for those affected by COVID-19:
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Aetna: https://www.aetna.com/individuals-families/member-rights-resources/covid19.html
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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona: https://newscenter.azblue.com/blue-cross-blue-shield-of-arizona-expands-support-for-coronavirus-services-and-care-waives-telehealth-cost-share-for-members/
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United Health Care: https://www.uhc.com/health-and-wellness/health-topics/covid-19
If you are NOT currently insured but interested in obtaining health care insurance, options are available by following prompts on this health care exchange web portal:
Arizona's Medicaid and KidsCare
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Arizona's Medicaid and KidsCare programs provide health care to individuals based on income. During the COVID crisis, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) was granted flexibility by the federal government to ensure there is an adequate provider network, remove cost sharing requirements for enrollees, and enhance services for vulnerable populations.
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To learn more about enrollment in AHCCCS, please use the following link: https://azahcccs.gov/Members/GetCovered/
Prescription Refills
Governor Ducey has issued an Executive Order to allow pharmacists to dispense emergency refills of maintenance medications. Arizonans would be able to receive a refill for up to 180 days, while avoiding a trip to the doctor. The Order also puts in new requirements when filling hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine. A prescription would be limited to a 14 day supply and requires a prescription with a diagnosis code for COVID-19.
Telemedicine
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Telemedicine is a critical component of maintaining continuity of care for individuals with chronic conditions as well as providing access to care when social distancing is necessary to prevent the spread of the virus. Recently, Governor Doug Ducey issued an executive order that provided flexibility to allow for greater access to telemedicine services by expanding the list of health care providers not normally covered via electronic visits. These services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and chiropractic care to list a few.
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For more details related to the Telemedicine Executive Order click here: file:///C:/Files/Downloads/eo_2020-15_expansion_of_telemedicine.pdf
Telemedicine for pets
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To reinforce Arizona’s Stay at Home measures, Governor Ducey has signed an Executive Order to allow veterinarians to examine pets and animals through telemedicine. The order also prevents vets from charging more for telemedicine than for an in-person visit.
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The Executive Order can be viewed HERE.
Behavioral Health Resources
The onslaught of information related to the trends in COVID-19 confirmed cases in the state and nationwide is overwhelming to say the least. Adherence to social distancing from family and friends and concern over access to essential services will undoubtedly contribute to anxiety and stress. Behavioral health services are a key component to wellness and resources are available to people currently utilizing services or seeking help for the first time. Check with your health insurer on where and how to connect with a behavioral health professional.
If you are currently enrolled in AHCCCS, please locate a provider through the following link: https://www.azahcccs.gov/Members/BehavioralHealthServices/
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) provides additional information:
Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health: Tips for Social Distancing, Quarantine, and Isolation During an Infectious Disease Outbreak
The World Health Organization offers these mental health considerations as support for mental and psychological well-being during COVID-19 outbreak. Mental Health Considerations during COVID-19 Outbreak
The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people and communities. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children.
The Centers for Disease Control offers these resources for mental health and coping during an infectious disease outbreak: Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19, which includes: