Mental Health Primary Care Senior Health

Staying Mentally and Physically Healthy During COVID-19

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By U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto

The fallout from COVID-19 has been tough on communities across our state. From families with loved ones fighting the disease and those treating patients, to workers facing unemployment, to those struggling with social isolation, this pandemic has taken a toll on all Nevadans. That’s why the health and well-being of every Nevadan is a top priority of mine as our state works around the clock to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Every Nevadan should take time to care for their mental health, and learn more about the resources available to help them do so. If you don’t know where to find health care and mental health resources, my Disaster Resource Guide is a good place to start. This comprehensive guide has information about everything from COVID-19 Medicare coverage and Nevada Health Link’s Special Enrollment Period to mental health resources across the state.

Each of us will respond differently to this outbreak. Individuals like seniors, children, first responders, medical professionals, and folks with preexisting mental health conditions may experience stronger stress responses during this extremely difficult time. That’s why it’s critical that every Nevadan knows that there are mental health resources available in communities across the state. If you or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66-746 for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Disaster Distress Hotline.

Knowing you and your family have health insurance can also help reduce stress during the coronavirus pandemic. If you missed the open enrollment period in the fall—don’t worry—Nevada Health Link announced a limited-time Exceptional Circumstance Special Enrollment Period that runs from March 17, 2020 through April 15, 2020. Signing up for health care is one of the best ways to protect you and your family during the coronavirus epidemic, so visit NevadaHealthLink.com to enroll today.

For those with questions about their health care provider, the Governor’s Office for Consumer Health Assistance is an excellent resource during these uncertain times. You can call the Governor’s Office for Consumer Health Assistance at (702) 486-3587 for assistance.

Last but certainly not least, I know Nevada’s Medicare beneficiaries may be wondering what’s covered during the coronavirus pandemic. That’s why I’ve provided a list of COVID-19 Medicare coverage and information below, which is the most up-to-date information as of this writing.

•        Medicare covers the lab tests for COVID-19. You pay no out-of-pocket costs.

•        Medicare covers all medically necessary hospitalizations. Medicare will also cover your hospital stay if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 and might otherwise have been discharged from the hospital after an inpatient stay, but you instead are asked to stay in the hospital under quarantine.

•        At this time, there’s no vaccine for COVID-19. However, if one becomes available, it will be covered by all Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) at no cost to you.

•        If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you have access to these same benefits. Many plans offer additional telehealth benefits. Check with your plan about your coverage and costs.

•        Scammers may use the coronavirus national emergency to take advantage of people while they’re distracted. As always, guard your Medicare card like a credit card, check Medicare claims summary forms for errors, and if someone calls asking for your Medicare Number, hang up.

For more information, please contact Social Security at (800) 772-1213; Medicare at (800) 633-4227; or the Nevada State Health Insurance Advisory Program at (702) 486-3478 (local Las Vegas number) or toll-free at (800) 307-4444.