You’ve
likely heard about the coronavirus (officially called 2019-novel coronavirus or
COVID-19) in the news. While there isn’t a vaccine yet, your Medicare Part B
(Medical Insurance) covers a test to see if you have
coronavirus
. This test is covered when your doctor or a health care
provider orders it, if you get the test on or after February 4, 2020. You
usually pay nothing for Medicare-covered clinical diagnostic laboratory tests.

Note: Your provider will need to wait until after April 1,
2020 to submit a claim to Medicare for this test.

To
prevent the spread of this illness or other illnesses including the flu, below
are some tips to follow:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and
    water
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you
    cough or sneeze
  • Stay home when you’re sick
  • See your doctor if you think you’re
    ill

For
more information on the coronavirus, please visit the Centers for Disease Control website.