Governor Larry Hogan is taking steps to remove cost barriers for (coronavirus) COVID-19 testing. A directive that has been issued during the recent state of emergency requires all state health insurers to waive any cost-sharing, including co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Additional details regarding the three confirmed COVID-19 cases in Montgomery County have also been released.
Officials say all three of the individuals contracted the virus while on an Egyptian cruise of the Nile River. They have been identified as a married couple in their 70s, and a female in her 50s. One of the individuals who tested positive attended a recent gathering at The Village at Rockville. Officials say people who attended the event should monitor for symptoms of a respiratory infection. Anyone who thinks they may have been exposed should should call the Maryland Emergency Management Agency at 410-517-3720 or dial 2-1-1 with all other questions.
“I want to continue to assure Marylanders that our state is taking every precaution when it comes to the coronavirus,” said Governor Hogan. “Our highest priority is keeping our residents safe. I would encourage all Marylanders to remain calm, but to take this seriously and to continue to stay informed.”
As of Saturday, the governor announced that 44 people in Maryland have met the criteria for COVID-19 testing, including the three confirmed cases. A total of 33 individuals have tested negative.
State health carriers will also be required to waive any time restrictions on prescription medical refills in an effort to make it easier for individuals to obtain medications in advance of any possible quarantine. Carriers will also be encouraged to offer telehealth services, and to prepare to cover costs of vaccinations for COVID-19. Read the Maryland Insurance Administration’s bulletin to carriers here.
I have issued a directive requiring all state health insurers to waive costs associated with testing for COVID-19. Our highest priority is keeping our residents safe. Learn more: https://t.co/lqFKecu8Yo pic.twitter.com/WQwFpMBGEp
— Governor Larry Hogan (@GovLarryHogan) March 7, 2020
Members of the public who attended this event should monitor for symptoms of a respiratory infection.
Anyone who thinks they may have been exposed should should call @MDMEMA at 410-517-3720. Dial 2-1-1 with all other questions.https://t.co/PVz9xSfc7b pic.twitter.com/u4I6lG6gzX
— Maryland Department of Health (@MDHealthDept) March 7, 2020
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