Current News and Events

Four things to know: COVID-19 developments

From Blue Shield of California As the pandemic continues, it can be challenging to stay informed across the array of COVID-19 developments and related news. Below, we provide a summary of recent events as well as what we’re seeing on the horizon. Vaccine mandates for employers We know the focus for many employers is on […]

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Apple and UnitedHealthcare make on-demand fitness classes more accessible for fully insured members

UnitedHealthcare is expanding its work with Apple to provide millions of fully insured members with access – at no additional cost – to Apple Fitness+, the first fitness service built entirely around Apple Watch. Eligible UnitedHealthcare member access to Apple Fitness+ begins Nov. 1, 2021, with a buy-up option for employers with self-funded health plans […]

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COVID-19 Update

From Blue Shield California COVID-19 vaccine approval and booster shots Although infections are again on the rise, there are two key advancements with vaccines in the fight against COVID-19: FDA approval and booster shots. What to know: The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against COVID-19 – officially branded as Cominarty – gained full approval by the Food and […]

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New tool for early identification of COVID-19 surges

Kaiser Permanente develops simple method to help hospitals and communities identify early signs of a large community spread of infectious diseases. Read the full announcement here.

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Peloton and UnitedHealthcare make fitness and wellness more accessible

UnitedHealthcare and Peloton are helping improve access to innovative fitness and well-being resources. Starting September 1, 2021, eligible fully insured UnitedHealthcare members1 will have access to a new wellness offering that offers up to 12 months of the Peloton Digital Membership at no additional cost to them. More information is here. The Peloton Digital Membership […]

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Dignity Health Seeks to End Relationship with Anthem Blue Cross

Anthem will ensure continuity of care for members July, 2021 For many years, Anthem Blue Cross (Anthem) members have been able to receive in-network care from Dignity Health (Dignity), which unfortunately has become one of the more expensive health systems in California. Dignity issued contract termination notices to Anthem for the vast majority of its […]

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IRS Provides Additional Guidance on the COBRA Subsidy

On May 18, 2021, the IRS issued 86 FAQs regarding implementation of the 2021 COBRA premium assistance (or “COBRA subsidy”) and corresponding tax credit under the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”). The FAQs provide helpful guidance explaining employer obligations regarding the COBRA subsidy for Assistance Eligible Individuals (“AEI”). In addition, the guidance provides some helpful […]

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Understanding COBRA subsidies in the American Rescue Plan Act

From Blue Shield of California The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed on March 11, 2021, is a $1.9 trillion economic relief bill in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A key component of this Act is a COBRA subsidy for qualifying individuals as outlined under Section 9501 Preserving Health Benefits for Workers. Under this […]

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COVID-19 vaccine: here’s what you need to know

We understand how important it is for your clients to have reliable information about the availability of FDA-emergency use authorized vaccines, while maintaining the fight against COVID-19. We are monitoring developments closely and will make regular updates to our COVID-19 Resources site for brokers and employers. Cost Blue Shield of California members can receive COVID-19 […]

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Blue California – COVID-19 Update

As the fight against COVID-19 continues, Blue Shield of California is extending cost-sharing waivers through January 31, 2021 for COVID-19 treatment. Treatment Since April, Blue Shield has waived co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles for treatment for COVID-19. We are extending this waiver through January 31, 2021. This applies to the following plan types: Fully insured plans […]

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