PITTSBURGH – UPMC Health Plan confirmed Wednesday that it will continue to waive all deductibles, coinsurance, and copays for in-network, inpatient COVID-19 treatment. Members enrolled in Medicare Advantage, fully insured employer group, and individual Affordable Care Act plans will be covered, as will those in self-insured employer group plans that opt in to this coverage.

This policy change is effective immediately and will stay in effect through April 20, 2021, as permitted under state and federal emergency declarations.

“UPMC Health Plan cares about our members, and we want them to know that COVID-19 treatment is both affordable and accessible,” said Diane Holder, president and CEO of UPMC Health Plan. “We are committed to providing [access to] the care our members need to stay healthy and safe. These efforts include our ongoing work to register our members to receive available vaccines and working with organizations conducting vaccine clinics to assist our eligible members.”

UPMC Health Plan will also continue to waive member cost sharing for in-network telehealth (virtual) visits with a health care provider—including through UPMC AnywhereCare—until April 20 as permitted under state and federal emergency declarations. Telehealth involves using technology—such as mobile apps, websites, telephonic, and videoconferencing software—to deliver physical and behavioral health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these telehealth visits have become increasingly popular because they allow members and providers adhere to social distancing guidelines.