With several states and the U.S. declaring monkeypox a public health emergency, payers nationwide have issued public statements or provided information to members amid the growing outbreak and slow vaccine rollout.
Seven payer responses:
Blue Shield of California
California issued an emergency declaration Aug. 1 over rising monkeypox cases. Susan Fleischman, MD, chief medical officer at Blue Shield of California, wrote an Aug. 4 article explaining what the declaration entails and discussed preventing and getting vaccinated for monkeypox.
Health Net
The company said Aug. 9 it is offering special support to members with monkeypox though prescription assistance, mental health support and free telehealth services.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
The payer released a video Aug. 10 with Derek Robinson, MD, vice president and chief medical officer. Dr. Robinson answered questions about the virus, exposure protocol and vaccinations.
Oregon Health Authority
The OHA along with the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services said Aug. 10 that all payers in the state are now required to cover monkeypox vaccines for members because the state has declared an outbreak.
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
The company published an article Aug. 3 discussing the virus, its symptoms and how to control the spread.
BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
The payer's chief medical officer, Andrea Willis, MD, was interviewed by the company's blog July 27 to discuss the virus, symptoms and vaccinations.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rhode Island
The payer published an FAQ for members about the virus, how to avoid it and vaccination access.