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Elizabeth M. Whitehorn, Director

Provider Notice Issued 03/13/2020

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Date:    March 13, 2020

 

To:       All Medical Assistance Program Providers

 

Re:      COVID-19 Testing Coverage and Information Sources

 

 

 

 

This notice informs providers of Medicaid coverage for COVID-19 laboratory testing and offers other information about coronavirus.

 

The Department of Healthcare and Family Services wants to ensure that all providers understand that the cost of COVID-19 laboratory testing is a covered service of the Illinois Medicaid program. A new Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code, U0002, became effective February 4, 2020, for providers to bill for non-CDC laboratory COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) testing.

 

This code will be added to the next update of the Department’s Practitioner Fee Schedule but a rate has not yet been assigned. Until that occurs, claims billed will be placed on hold. There are no participant copayments for laboratory services.

 

Questions regarding the information provided above may be directed to the Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565.

 

Medical providers can help the public to understand the realities of COVID-19 and to respond appropriately. HFS encourages providers to use materials available through the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) as part of their education approaches and explanations, including: 

  • CDC Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html
  • Printable resources (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/factsheets.html
  • Prevention and treatment suggestions (IDPH): https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention-treatment.html

 

Because seniors and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk, providers may also wish to encourage those in other populations to be especially supportive and attentive to their potentially more vulnerable friends, family and co-workers. Periods of public health concern are the most important time to foster common sense measures, raised empathy and accurate information.

 

 

 

Kelly Cunningham

Interim Medicaid Administrator