Monday’s shelter in place order by Bay Area counties drives home just how important our actions are during this unique time. Every move we make — as a company and a community — can make a difference.
We are supporting our members, employees, friends and families and our communities to slow the spread of COVID-19. The safety and wellbeing of our employees and members is a priority and our decisions as a company are guided by that.

Thanks to our dedicated and hard-working employees, this pandemic will not affect our ability to serve our members. Our focus on transforming and modernizing our operations in recent years led us to implement new processes and technologies, enabling Blue Shield to adapt and respond quickly to the realities of the coronavirus pandemic. Two weeks ago, we activated our business continuity plan to ensure our members and customers receive seamless service.
That was just the start. We’re stepping up coverage and taking action to ensure members get the care they need during this time. We’re waiving all cost-sharing and any prior approval requirements for COVID-19 testing when prescribed by a physician for all members enrolled in Blue Shield’s fully insured commercial and Medi-Cal plans.
To help members get access to advice and care as quickly as possible, we are waiving out-of-pocket costs for most members to use Teladoc Health’s virtual care. We’re also closely monitoring the impact on the prescription drug supply and are prepared to take immediate action to ensure members have continued access to their medications. We continue to publish advice from our health experts on how to avoid the virus and keep your friends and family safe.
To ensure the health and safety of our employees and their families, we instituted a company-wide work-from-home policy during this time. We’ve also eliminated travel and face-to-face meetings.
It takes the effort of every single one of us, including national, state and regional leaders, to help slow the spread of this virus. Our goal of creating a healthcare system worthy of our family and friends and sustainably affordable has never been more important.