Extension in place through duration of the state of emergency

PROVIDENCE, RI (March 22, 2021) – Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) today reversed a decision to no longer waive out-of-pockets costs, or cost sharing, for COVID-19 treatment as of April 1, 2021. Instead, the insurer will waive those costs through the duration of the state of emergency.

The decision to continue the waiver followed discussions with Governor Dan McKee and the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC), as well as feedback from BCBSRI members.

“At Blue Cross, we recognize that even with the availability of vaccines growing, many of our members are facing serious hardships and challenges due to the ongoing pandemic,” said Michele Lederberg, BCBSRI interim president and CEO. “We appreciate our open dialogue with OHIC and specifically, Commissioner Patrick Tigue, and will continue our coordinated efforts to help Rhode Islanders.”

In addition to waiving cost-sharing for COVID-19 treatment, BCBSRI also continues to waive cost-sharing for COVID-19 testing and the office visit, urgent care or emergency department visit that results in testing in accordance with the FFCRA and CARES Act. All COVID-19 vaccines are also covered with no member cost share or out-of-pocket costs.