UPDATED 03.30.20: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Prevention and Preparation
VHP's healthcare recommendations and prescription refill policy.
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department continues to update us about the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in our community. As the number of cases in the County of Santa Clara continues to rise and the continuation of the “shelter in place” order, it is natural to have questions about what you should do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Your friends at VHP are here to help.
New Prescription Refill Guidance as of March 30, 2020
VHP has updated our prescription refill policy to ensure that our members continue to have access to needed medications. Effective April 1, VHP will allow overrides on any regular medication refills for non-controlled substance mediations with less than a 35-day supply, even if outside your normal refill schedule. If you would like your prescriptions mailed to you, please check with your pharmacy for their mail options. If your pharmacy does not have a mail option, please use VHP’s Mail Order Pharmacy Program.
If you are concerned about running out of medication, ask your pharmacy to contact Navitus at 1.866.333.2757 (toll-free)
Screening and Testing for the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
VHP has informed its provider to not charge our Members cost sharing, including co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance for all medically necessary screening and testing for Coronavirus (COVID-19). This applies to costs associated with office and telehealth visits, associated lab tests and radiology services at contracted hospitals, emergency rooms, urgent care centers or other provider locations where the purpose of the visit is to be screened and/or tested for Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Social Distancing
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all people use “social distancing” to help reduce the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Simply explained, social distancing, means that you should increase the physical space between you and other people whenever possible. This includes only going to see the doctor in person if you have been told by a medical professional that you need to be screened or tested or have an emergency medical need.
Telehealth
VHP encourages all Members to use our available telehealth benefits before going to a doctor’s office, urgent care or emergency center. Covered California, Individual & Family Plan Members and Employer Group Members can use their MDLIVE benefit. MDLIVE allows you to see a doctor from your home through your phone or personal computer, therefore reducing the risk of transmitting or getting the virus. If you have not activated your MDLIVE account, visit www.mdlive.com/vhp, call 1.888.467.4614, or text “VHP” to 635483 to get started.
All Members can use VHP’s 24/7 Nurse Advice Line to seek advice on whether you should make an appointment with your doctor.
24/7 Nurse Advice Lines for VHP Members:
Employer Group: 1.866.682.9492 (toll-free)
Covered California and Individual & Family Plan: 1.855.348.9119 (toll-free)
Medi-Cal Managed Care: 1.877.509.0294 (toll-free)
Additional Information
The County’s Public Health Department has shared new information to help protect our family, friends, and neighbors:
www.sccgov.org/sites/phd/DiseaseInformation/novel-coronavirus/Pages/home.aspx.
Here are some of the important tips from the Public Health Department:
How can I best protect myself from getting the novel coronavirus virus?
- Frequently wash your hands with soap or use hand sanitizers.
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth because one way viruses spread is when you touch your own mouth, nose or eyes.
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue, sleeve, or arm. Do not use your hands.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces such as phones, tablets, light switches, countertops and doorknobs.
- Keep away from others who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
What are the symptoms of the novel coronavirus?
Symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, and aches. The illness can progress to shortness of breath and complications from pneumonia. Symptoms may also include nausea with vomiting and diarrhea. Some infected patients experience only mild symptoms while others – particularly older individuals and those with underlying health conditions – might develop more severe symptoms.
What should I do if I don't feel well?
- If you have a fever, go home immediately and stay there until at least 24 hours after the fever goes away naturally without the use of fever-reducing medicine. For example, if your fever lasts for three days, you should stay home for at least four days.
- Do not attend or host any gatherings. This is where cold, flu, and other respiratory viruses are often spread.
If you have symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, call your doctor or the VHP 24/7 Nurse Advice Line for your Plan, or make an appointment with MDLIVE.