Aetna International is waiving cost-sharing, co-pay and other deductibles for inpatient hospital admissions related to covid-19.
This is part of the firm’s plan to help international medical insurance members access the care that they need during the coronavirus pandemic.
The firm recently expanded patient access to consultations and medication through its virtual health offering, vHealth, which was made freely available to all members.
“The health, safety and well-being of Aetna International customers and members is paramount, which is why we are announcing additional steps today to help provide timely and barrier free access to care during the covid-19 outbreak,” said Richard di Benedetto, president of Aetna International.
“We are doing everything we can to make sure our members are supported and have simple and affordable access to the treatment they need, when they need it.”
Details
If cost-sharing, co-pay or another deductible applies to a member’s inpatient benefit, Aetna International will waive this for inpatient admissions at all in-network facilities for treatment of covid-19 or health complications associated with the virus.
This policy applies to all its international medical insurance members and is effective immediately for any such admission until 1 June 2020.
Additionally, for Aetna International members in the Americas, hospitals no longer need advance approval for members requiring hospitalisation for coronavirus.
This change allows for expedited access to the necessary treatment.
The firm said: “Aetna International is working closely with partner hospitals in the region to help transfer and discharge members with issues unrelated to covid-19 from hospitals to safe and clinically appropriate care settings where they can continue to have their needs addressed.
“This will help hospitals and emergency rooms make room for more patients, especially those suffering from covid-19.”
Diagnostic testing
As well as treatment waivers, expedited access to treatment, and free access to virtual health services, Aetna International said members who undergo diagnostic testing for covid-19 will also be reimbursed in full for the cost of the test and consultation.
It added: “Members should continue to follow the guidance issued by their local health authority and contact their local health care provider or a vHealth doctor if they have any concerns.”
