Your frequently asked questions about COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Last updated on 3/30/20 Have a question about COVID-19? We’re here to help. Will Independence cover testing for COVID-19? Independence Blue Cross (Independence) will cover and reimburse member cost-sharing (such as co-pays, deductibles, and coinsurance) for the COVID-19 test and the administration of the test when performed at an in-network physician’s office, urgent care center, or an emergency room....
Read More

Independence joins new funding initiative for area nonprofits to help vulnerable populations affected by COVID-19

IBX CEO Dan Hilferty stands behind the podium at the COVID-19 Fund announcement at City Hall. A female American Sign Language interpreter stands to his right
Philadelphia, PA — March 20, 2020 — Independence Blue Cross (Independence) CEO Daniel J. Hilferty participated in the City of Philadelphia’s COVID-19 Update press event at City Hall to announce the organization’s support for the new PHL COVID-19 Fund. The Fund will provide grants to Greater Philadelphia nonprofit organizations that serve vulnerable populations such as the elderly,...
Read More

Independence to close offices in the Philadelphia area and New Jersey amid COVID-19 outbreak

G. Fred DiBona Building
Philadelphia, PA — March 17, 2020 —  Given the spread of COVID-19 in the region and Independence Blue Cross’s (Independence) commitment to protecting its workforce, the company announced today that Independence offices in the Philadelphia area and New Jersey will be closing today at 5 p.m. until further notice.  “This is an unprecedented time for our company,...
Read More

Independence response to COVID-19 (coronavirus)

immunologist wearing a face mask and blue gloves holding a vial marked
Updated on March 30 Independence Blue Cross (Independence) is committed to ensuring that our members have access to the care they need, at the right time, and in the right setting. As COVID-19 (coronavirus) has escalated into a serious global health threat, we are working to make sure that our members can receive appropriate testing and treatment for this virus if needed....
Read More

Blue Crew volunteers pack books for children in recognition of Read Across America Day

Blue Crew volunteers in blue t-shirts pack up books for children
Fifty Independence Blue Cross Blue Crew volunteers packed children’s books in recognition of National Read Across America Day on March 2. Independence collaborated with United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, Read by 4th, and People’s Emergency Center on this project. The books will be distributed through People’s Emergency Center’s Early Childhood Education programs to children and families currently in shelters or transitional housing,...
Read More

Independence hosts KYW Newsradio Executive Briefing for fourth year

KYW Newsradio Executive Briefing 2020
Pat Loeb, Mike DeNardo, Kristen Johanson, Jim Melwert, Cherri Gregg at Independence LIVE For the fourth consecutive year, KYW Newsradio brought its Executive Briefing to Independence LIVE. The annual event offers an opportunity to hear from the station’s anchors and reporters about the important issues they expect to cover in 2020. Independence Blue Cross was the presenting sponsor....
Read More

Independence Among Blue Cross and Blue Shield Companies Joining Forces with Civica Rx to Lower Costs of Select High-Cost Generic Drugs

Today, Independence Blue Cross (Independence), along with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and 17 other BCBS companies announced a partnership with the nonprofit Civica Rx (Civica, Inc.) to form a new company that intends to lower prices of select high-cost generic drugs. “We are committed to finding new ways to make health care more accessible and affordable for the people and communities we serve....
Read More

Independence expands its program with MANNA to deliver free, medically tailored meals to more of its Medicare Advantage members in 2020

MANNA food delivery driver pictured next to a truck with the MANNA logo
Philadelphia, PA — January 6, 2020 — In a continued effort to address the social and environmental conditions affecting seniors in southeastern Pennsylvania, Independence Blue Cross (Independence) is expanding its program with MANNA to offer more of its Medicare Advantage members a free and nutritious meal delivery program. The expanded program, which started on January 1,...
Read More

Independence earns 2019 Energy Star recognition for fifth year in row

For the fifth straight year, Independence Blue Cross (Independence) received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® certification. The recognition reflects Independence’s superior energy performance and savings at its Philadelphia headquarters on Market Street. Energy Star-certified buildings have an energy performance in the top 25 percent nationwide. And compared to typical buildings, they must: Emit 35 percent fewer greenhouse gasses Use 35 percent less energy Cost less to operate....
Read More

Dr. Ginny Calega testifies in support of bill aimed at improving treatment for opioid overdose survivors

Dr. Ginny Calega, vice president of Medical Affairs for Independence Blue Cross, testified on December 2 before the Philadelphia City Council’s Committee on Public Health and Human Services to support a bill that could improve treatment for opioid overdose survivors. Calega supported a bill that will authorize the Health Department to collect additional information from local hospitals regarding the interventions and outcomes associated with nonfatal opioid overdoses....
Read More