The Employees Retirement System of Texas is working with its health plan administrators and UNT System to closely monitor the potential impact of COVID-19.
At this time, your plan has no out-of-pocket costs for physician-ordered COVID-19 testing at in-network labs, for those who meet federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. HealthSelect of Texas also has trained staff who can answer questions about the virus and COVID-19.
To help avoid contracting the virus and prevent its spreading in your community, we encourage you to know and follow recommendations by the Texas Department of State Health Services and the CDC. You should take common-sense measures like washing their hands frequently; covering coughs and sneezes with a single-use tissue or their elbows; avoiding touching your face; and keeping a comfortable distance from others when possible.
If you think you have been exposed to coronavirus or have symptoms—fever, cough and shortness of breath— you can talk with your health care provider about recommended testing and treatment. To help limit exposure to the coronavirus and other possible infections, virtual visits are a great option for someone with mild symptoms. Virtual visits allow participants to see a licensed doctor through their telephone or computer. These are offered at no cost to participants or at a lower cost than a typical office visit. Find more information about virtual visits in each health plan below.
- The situation has many people feeling anxious and scared. Optum has opened its Emotional-Support Help Line—staffed by mental health professionals—to anyone who may be experiencing fear or stress because of COVID-19. Members can call (866) 342-6892, free of charge, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- HealthSelect of Texas®, HealthSelectSM Secondary and HealthSelectSM Out-of-State (administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas)
- HealthSelectSM Prescription Drug Program (administered by OptumRx and serving HealthSelect of Texas, HealthSelect Out-of-State
and Consumer Directed HealthSelect)
- 855-828-9834
- www.optumrx.com/oe_ers/landing
- Participants may be able to get an early refill of up to a 90-day supply of their prescription by calling the number above.