Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for Providers
The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended May 11, 2023. This page outlines coverage and benefits for UCare members and replaces any previous COVID-19 content posted during the PHE.
Contact the Provider Assistance Center (PAC) at 612-676-3300 or 1-888-531-1493 with questions.
PAGE LAST UPDATED MARCH 11, 2024
Tests and Treatment
UCare Medicare Plans
The federal Medicare program no longer covers OTC COVID-19 tests. After May 11, 2023, UCare members can use their UCare Healthy Savings® cards to purchase OTC COVID-19 tests.
UCare Individual & Family Plans
Members can obtain up to eight Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-authorized OTC tests for COVID-19. These tests are available at no cost to UCare members every 30 days with a prescription.
MinnesotaCare, Minnesota Senior Care Plus, Prepaid Medical Assistance Program, UCare Connect, UCare Connect + Medicare and UCare’s Minnesota Senior Health Options
UCare will cover up to eight OTC COVID-19 tests per month at a pharmacy with a prescription through September 30, 2024.
All UCare Products
COVID-19 vaccines are covered with no cost share as a preventive service for all products.
All UCare Products
Cost share applies to monoclonal antibody treatments that are approved for emergency use or authorized by the FDA. COVID-19 treatments continually change.
Billing, Payment, Telehealth, Telemedicine and Technology-Based Services
All UCare Products
Cost share will be applied for inpatient, observation, outpatient, office-based clinic and emergency department services.
For updated telehealth, telemedicine and technology-based service coding and billing and information on or after May 12, 2023, refer to:
Medicare Products and Individual and Family Plans
https://www.cms.gov/files/document/mln901705-telehealth-services.pdf
Medicare Claims Processing Manual, Section 190
State Public Programs Products
Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) Provider Manual