To Our All In PT Friends and Family,
UnitedHealthCare last night decided to waive cost sharing (copays, coinsurance, and deductibles) for primary care and specialist services for Medicare Advantage and Special Needs Plan members. That means no copays for physical therapy and office visits between May 11, 2020 to at least September 30, 2020.
Information from UnitedHealthCare as follows:
Who Is Eligible?
"Eligible Members The waiving of cost share applies to all UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members, including Group and all Special Needs Plan (SNP) members."
What Services Are Included In This Change?
"Eligible Services
The waiving of cost share for Medicare Advantage members applies to professional services performed by both primary care physicians as well as specialists, no matter the diagnosis or reason for the visit. It applies to the following categories:
Primary care physician office visits
Specialist physician office visits
Physician assistant or nurse practitioner office visits
Chiropractic and acupuncture services (Medicare-covered)
Eye exams, hearing exams and podiatry visits (Medicare-covered or additional covered benefits)
Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy in an office or outpatient setting
Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services in an office or outpatient hospital setting
Outpatient mental health and substance abuse visits in an office or outpatient setting
Opioid treatment services in an office, outpatient hospital or opioid treatment center setting
However, member cost share is not waived in any place of service for:
Inpatient services, outpatient surgery and observation
All skilled nursing services
All home health services
Lab and diagnostic tests (radiological and non-radiological)
Part B and Part D drugs
Durable medical equipment/prosthetics/supplies
Renal dialysis
Cost share is waived for covered services from a network provider or covered out-of-network services.
As needed, we’re also adjusting programs and services to protect members and help limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus in communities. We may also temporarily suspend or relax additional policies as needed in regions where inpatient capacity is most compromised and at risk.""
We want our patients to be aware of this information to assist them through these times that are challenging for many. As you can see there are a lot of available services and Physical therapy is included. Also many plans do not require physician referrals for physical therapy. If you have questions regarding your eligibility call us at 208-515-7575 or UnitedHealthCare at 800-643-4845.