News and Updates on COVID-19 Coronavirus

KFF

First SARS-CoV-2 Home Diagnostic Test Approved

The first SARS-CoV-2 home diagnostic test was approved on April 21, 2020. The test was developed by Labcorp. The initial plans are to make the test available to healthcare workers.

The test however, can not be used in states such as Maryland, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island because those states currently only allow tests to be administered by physicians.

Kaiser Family Health News reports the story in detail here https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-policy-watch/at-home-sars-cov-2-diagnostic-tests-could-be-a-breakthrough-but-what-are-the-limitations/.

COVID-19 and Pets

We’re still learning about how #COVID19 affects animals, but it appears that people can spread the virus to animals in some situations. Until we know more, limit contact with pets if you are sick or feeling sick. For more info, see: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html.

COVID Self Checker

The Coronavirus Self Checker Named Clara

Everyone can help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Self-Checker, also known as Clara, can help you decide when to call your doctor if you are feeling sick. Try the symptom checker here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/index.html#cdc-chat-bot-open

Medicare Payment for Lab Services

Medicare Payment for Lab Services

Where Medicare Beneficiaries Can Get Tested for COVID-19

Where Medicare Beneficiaries Can Get Tested for COVID-19

New rules to support and expand COVID-19 diagnostic testing for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries

CMS announces changes in Medicare due to Coronavirus

Silversneakers

Our Silversneakers Free Workout Finds This Week

Our Silversneakers Free Workout Finds This Week

Do you need Hearing Benefits that fit your needs?

Do you need Medicare Hearing Benefits? Have your needs changed? Now may be a good time to review your Medicare benefits and find out if they fit your needs.

If you have recently moved, it may affect your Medicare

If you have recently moved, it may affect your Medicare

Do you need Medicare Part D Benefits that fit your needs?

Your prescription needs and budget may change over time. Insurance companies also frequently change what they will cover for prescriptions.

Now may be a good time to review your Medicare benefits and find out if they fit your needs.

Coronavirus Information for Hearing Impaired and in Spanish

Coronavirus Information for Hearing Impaired and in Spanish

Prescription Drug Benefits

Your prescription drug benefits are important.

Your prescription drug benefits are important.

CDC Guidelines for Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes

Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes

SilversSneakers

Free Silver Sneakers Workout Classes on YouTube

Free Silver Sneakers Workout Classes on YouTube

Do you think you may have COVID-19?

Do you think you may have COVID-19?

Thank You to Our Health Care Workers

Thank you to all our health care workers for all that you do.

Thank you to all our health care workers for all that you do.

Remember, we are here to help you with your Medicare

Remember, we are here to help you with your Medicare.

Compare and Save on Medicare

Compare & Save on Medicare Plans and get the benefits you deserve

Compare & Save on Medicare Plans and get the benefits you deserve

There are Medicare plans available at no cost or little cost

There are Medicare plans available at no cost or little cost. Find out what you qualify for today.

The CDC Recommends Developing a Care Plan

The CDC Recommends Developing a Care Plan

Social Distance

Keep your family & friends healthy during the COVID-19

Keep your family & friends healthy during the COVID-19 outbreak: postpone in-person visits with any other family & friends.

Testing Information

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) and want to get tested, call your doctor first. Also check with your state or local health department, which will have the latest information on testing. While supplies of these tests are increasing, it may still be difficult to find a place to get tested.

You may be eligible for a $0 Medicare Plan

You may be eligible for a $0 Medicare Plan

Social Security News Update

Social Security Combined Trust Funds Projection

Social Security Combined Trust Funds Projection

Administration Announces New Clinical Trials Improvement Activity

CMS NEWS: Trump Administration Champions Reporting of COVID-19 Clinical Trial Data through Quality Payment Program, Announces New Clinical Trials Improvement Activity

If you have been laid off recently and are 65 and over, you are now eligible for Medicare Part B. We can help.

If you have been laid off recently and are 65 and over, you are now eligible for Medicare Part B. We can help.

Buying Corn

Protect yourself from COVID-19 while getting gas

Protect yourself from COVID-19 while getting gas:

If available, use disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons of gas pump before you touch them.
After you get gas and pay, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water when you get to your destination.

News Annoucement

FDA Has Just Approved Home Test Kit for COVID-19

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has just announced the first diagnostic test with a home collection option for COVID-19.

Coronovirus & Take Out Food

Picking up takeout food while slowing the spread of COVID-19?

Picking up takeout food while slowing the spread of COVID-19?

Order & pay online or over the phone when possible.
Accept take-out without in-person contact or stay at least 6 feet away from others.
Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol after bringing home your food.