The COVID-19 pandemic took telehealth mainstream, making virtual healthcare appointments a convenient, safer option in the fight to slow the spread of disease. Three years later, health insurance carrier Blue Shield of California is taking telehealth coverage to the next level.
In January, the carrier launched its virtual-first health plan, Virtual Blue, which will officially go into use on April 1. Featuring no co-pay or deductible charges, its services include pediatrics and family medicine, along with integrated mental health care, 24/7 urgent care and care in over 20 specialities like cardiology, dermatology, rheumatology and infectious disease. The employer-provided plan comes with physical vitals kits so members can reliably check metrics such as their temperature and blood pressure from home. If a member needs in-person care, they can access Blue Shield’s PPO network at typical PPO costs.
