All 2021 plans include in-network COVID-19 coverage for testing and treatment so that members are protected even after the Public Health Emergency is lifted
Philadelphia – October 1, 2020 – Independence Blue Cross (Independence) announced its 2021 Medicare Advantage offerings today, which include in-network COVID-19 coverage for testing and treatment and three zero-premium plans – Keystone 65 Basic Rx HMO, Keystone 65 Focus Rx HMO-POS, and Personal Choice 65SM Prime Rx PPO. Those choosing an Independence plan will not need referrals and will have no medical or prescription deductibles.
“This year has been unlike any other we’ve experienced, but we have adapted quickly at Independence to support the needs of our members and the community,” said Dr. Heidi Syropoulos, medical director for Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross.
“Our 2021 Medicare offerings demonstrate how committed we are to their needs during this changing and uncertain time. The new COVID-19 coverage was specifically built into our plans so that members know that they will continue to have zero-dollar copayments if they are admitted to an in-network hospital due to the virus or if they need antibody or antigen testing after the Public Health Emergency is lifted.”
Other benefits offered by Independence during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, taking place October 15 through December 7, include:
- Access to board certified medical doctors and behavioral health specialists through an enhanced telemedicine benefit
- Zero-dollar copay primary care physician visits on all HMO plans and only $5 on both PPO plans
- IBX Care Card, which gives members an increased over-the-counter allowance at retail stores and online
- Dental, hearing, and vision coverage included in all plans
- Medicare Advantage Part D plans with a one-dollar copay for tier one preferred generic drugs at preferred pharmacies
- Reduced specialist copays for HMO members who have certain chronic conditions, like diabetes and congestive heart failure
Those signing up for an Independence Medicare Advantage plan in 2021 will also benefit from a SilverSneakers® fitness membership at no additional cost; routine podiatry and chiropractic coverage (in addition to the six visits Medicare offers); free annual physicals, access to a nurse hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and access to the personal health visit program through which members can meet with a nurse practitioner in their home or at another designated location to discuss their health, medications, and/or any other health-related questions that they may have.
Independence will continue to offer other high-quality Medicare Advantage plans, including Keystone 65 Select HMO, Keystone 65 Preferred HMO, and Personal Choice 65SM PPO.
Prospective members can learn more by visiting Independence Blue Cross’ Medicare Plans or by calling 1-877-393-6733 (TTY/TDD:711) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They can also attend a free virtual seminar being held now until December 7. Current members can call the number on the back of their member ID card if they have questions about their current Medicare Advantage plan or 2021 options.
Independence Blue Cross offers Medicare Advantage plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Independence Medicare Advantage plans depends on contract renewal. Independence Blue Cross offers products through its subsidiaries Independence Hospital Indemnity Plan, Keystone Health Plan East and QCC Insurance Company, and with Highmark Blue Shield — independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. © 2021 Tivity Health, Inc., an independent company. All rights reserved. Independence Blue Cross complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-275-2583 (TTY/TDD: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-800-275-2583 (TTY/TDD: 711) 。