COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions

At Gravie, our members’ health and safety is the top priority. We are actively monitoring the evolving COVID-19 outbreak and promise we’ll do our best to keep you informed and supported during this confusing time.

Here are few answers to some commonly asked questions:

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. There are many types of human coronaviruses including some that cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses, like the common cold. COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans.

What are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19?

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually.

Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.

What should I do if I’m concerned that I’ve contracted COVID-19?

If you are feeling sick, the first step is to contact your health care provider. They will assess your symptoms and determine next steps. You need to get a doctor’s approval to receive testing for COVID-19, so remember to check with your provider before visiting a testing facility.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency you should call 911.

Where do I get tested for COVID-19?

You should start by contacting your doctor. If it is determined to be medically necessary, your provider will share testing location information with you.

If you are unable to get the testing information needed from your doctor, you should contact your local department of health.

Does my health plan cover COVID-19 testing?

Many insurers are waiving co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles related to COVID-19 diagnostic testing. You can contact your insurer directly, or reach out to the Gravie Care Team, for questions about plan benefit details and how best to access care.

How does COVID-19 spread?

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How can I reduce my risk of contracting, or spreading, COVID-19?

The CDC recommends the following measures to help reduce your risk of getting sick or spreading COVID-19:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Practice social distancing – put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
• Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.

What should I do if I am at high risk for COVID-19?

If you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, you should:

• Stock up on supplies.
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.
• During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.

Questions? The Gravie Care Team has you covered. Give us a call at 800.501.2920 or send a secure message.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.