Provider COVID-19 Updates
MVP Health Care® (MVP) continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation carefully and is taking proactive measures to protect the health and safety of MVP members, employees, providers, and our community. We are working in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and with both New York and Vermont state departments overseeing the needs of the communities we serve.
MVP is committed to keeping providers up to date regarding changing guidelines and policies. Below is a summary of changes made during this State of Emergency.
Please note, MVP is abiding by guidance put forth by all regulating bodies and will provide coverage accordingly. As regulatory dates change, so will the dates associated with MVP coverage outlined below. To receive updates as they are announced, contact your MVP Professional Relations representative to receive email updates. MVP will email or fax updates to providers and will update this page accordingly.
On July 2, 2021 MVP announced changes to member cost-share effective August 1, 2021. Please review these changes by going to the Provider FastFax page and selecting fax number 30.
Summary of Codes for Use During State of Emergency
Commercial Medicaid Medicare Notes COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing U0001
U0002
U0003
U0004
U0005
86318
86328
86408
86409
86413
86769
87426
87428
87631
87635
87636
87637
87811
87426
87428
0202U
0223U
0224U
0225U
0226U
0240U
0241UICD-10 Codes:
R05
R06.02
R50.9U0001
U0002
U0003
U0004
U0005
86318
86328
86408
86409
86413
86769
87426
87428
87631
87635
87636
87637
87811
87426
87428
0202U
0223U
0224U
0225U
0226U
0240U
0241UU0001
U0002
U0003
U0004
U0005
86318
86328
86408
86409
86413
86769
87426
87428
87631
87635
87636
87637
87811
87426
87428
0202U
0223U
0224U
0225U
0226U
0240U
0241U
Office, ER, UCC:
ICD-10 codes (1st position):
Z03.818
Z03.828- No cost-share to the member
COVID-19 Antibody Testing 86328
8676986328
8676986328
86769- No cost-share to the member
COVID-19 Treatment U07.1
J12.82
M35.81
M35.89U07.1
J12.82
M35.81
M35.89U07.1
J12.82
M35.81
M35.89- No cost-share to the New York members for treatment between 4/1/2020 through 6/30/21
- No cost-share for Vermont members for treatment through 7/1/2021
- Self-funded employer groups have the option to offer treatment coverage to their employees with no member cost share.
Telemedicine Visits Submit appropriate E/M or CPT code (for example 99212 or 99213) POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers
Ensure only services that can be reasonably provided via telemedicine are billed
Submit appropriate E/M or CPT code (for example 99212 or 99213)POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers 99201-99215 POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers
E-Visits
MD, DO, NP, CNM bill:
99421-99423All others bill: G2061-G2063
- Effective 3/13/2020, no cost-share to Member during SOE
- Existing provider/patient relationship not necessary
- Included in any applicable Member benefit visit limitations
- VT Variation – billing as outlined can be done for visits performed visually or telephonically.
TeleMental Health Visits Submit appropriate E/M or CPT code POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers
May bill for ABA covered services (covered in a Commercial Member’s Subscriber Contract) for in-person visits as a TeleMental Health visit at no cost-share to the Member
Submit appropriate E/M or CPT code POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers
OMH/OASAS Licensed Facilities: Ensure OMH attestation is on file with OMH
Submit appropriate contracted codes POS as appropriate; GT/95 modifiers
E-Visits
MD, DO, NP, CNM bill:
99421-99423Providers who do not bill E/M:
G2061-G2063- Effective 3/13/2020, no cost-share to Member during SOE
- Telemental health visits may be provided as telephonic or video visits
Telephonic 99441
99442
99443
POS as appropriate Physician, NP, PA & Licensed CNMVirtual Check-in:
G2012
G201099441
99442
99443
POS as appropriate Physician, NP, PA & Licensed CNM87631
87635
U0001
U0002
U0003
U0004Virtual Check-in:
G2012
G2010- As of 3/13/2020, telephone-only codes covered at no cost-share to the Member
- Reimbursement is based whenever possible on rates in provider agreement
- Existing provider/patient relationship not necessary
MVP reserves the right to review all claims after the State of Emergency has been lifted to determine if proper coding was billed.
COVID-19 Diagnostic & Antibody Testing
Diagnostic Testing
In compliance with state and federal regulations, MVP does not apply a cost-share to visits for testing for COVID-19 when deemed medically necessary, including any fees associated with an in-network office, Emergency Department (ED), or Urgent Care Center (UCC) or an out-of-network ED, or UCC Provider for the purpose of getting tested for COVID-19. Medicare MSA plan Members must meet their deductible for cost-share to be waived.
The following CPT codes should be used for COVID-19 testing:
CPT Code Description U0001 Reported for coronavirus testing using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2019 Novel Coronavirus Real Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Test Panel. U0002 Reported for validated non-CDC laboratory tests for SARS-CoV-2/2019-nCoV (COVID-19). U0003 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (sars-cov-2) (coronavirus disease [covid-19]), amplified probe technique, making use of high throughput technologies as described by cms-2020-01-r U0004 2019-ncov coronavirus, sars-cov-2/2019-ncov (covid-19), any technique, multiple types or subtypes (includes all targets), non-cdc, making use of high throughput technologies as described by cms-2020-01-r U0005 Infection agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA OR RNA); Sever acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]), amplified probe technique 86318 Immunoassay for infection agent antibody(ies), qualitative or semiquantitative, single step method (e.g., reagent strip) 86328 Immunoassay for infections agent antibody(ies), qualitative or semiquantitative, single step method (e.g., reagent strip); sever acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) 86408 Neutralizing antibody, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]); Screen 86409 Neutralizing antibody, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]); Titer 86413 Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]); Antibody, quantitative 86769 Antibody; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]); 87426 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (eg, enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], fluorescence immunoassay [FIA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative; 87428 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (eg, enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], fluorescence immunoassay [FIA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative; 87631 Infectious Agent Detection By Nucleic Acid; Respiratory Virus, Reverse Transcription And Amp Probe Tech, 3-5 Targets 87635 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (Coronavirus disease [COVID-19]), amplified probe technique 87636 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) and influenza virus types A and B, multiplex amplified probe technique 87637 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2(coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) and influenza virus types A and B, and respiratory syncytial virus, multiplex amplified probe technique 87811 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical (i.e., visual) observation; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) 87426 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (e.g., enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], fluorescence immunoassay [FIA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (e.g., SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 [COVID-19]) 87428 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (e.g., enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], fluorescence immunoassay [FIA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (e.g., SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 [COVID-19]) and influenza virus types A and B 0202U Infectious disease (bacterial or viral respiratory tract infection), pathogen-specific nucleic acid (DNA or RNA), 22 targets including severe acute respiratory syndrome corona 0223U Infectious disease (bacterial or viral respiratory tract infection), pathogen-specific nucleic acid (DNA or RNA), 22 targets including severe acute respiratory syndrome corona 0224U Antibody, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]), includes titer(s), when performed 0225U Infectious disease (bacterial or viral respiratory tract infection) pathogen-specific DNO or RNA, 21 targets, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) 0226U Surrogate viral neutralization test (SVNT), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]), ELISA, plasma, serum 0240U Infectious disease (viral respiratory tract infection), pathogen-specific RNA, 3 targets (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-COV-2], influenza A, influenza 0241U Infectious disease (viral respiratory tract infection), pathogen-specific RNA, 4 targets (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-COV-2], influenza A, influenza Claims billed with the following ICD-10 codes in the first position for office, ED, or UCC visits that are for the primary purpose of testing will not apply a cost-share:
- Z20.828
In addition, effective 3/13/2020, the following codes will be covered at no cost-share for commercial members:
- R05
- R06.02
- R50.9
MVP has updated diagnosis codes that waive cost share for visits for diagnostic testing. Effective January 1, 2021, diagnosis codes Z20.822 and Z86.16 waive Member cost share. Effective May 1, 2021 diagnosis code Z11.59 will no longer waive cost share but will still be covered. The following diagnosis codes will waive cost share for Members who have a visit for diagnostic testing:
Diagnosis Code Description Z20.828 Contact with and exposure to other viral communicable diseases R05 Cough R06.02 Shortness of breath R50.9 Fever, unspecified Z20.822 Contact with and (suspected) exposure to COVID-19 Z86.16 Personal history of COVID-19 Specimen Handling
MVP will cover specimen handling, 99001, and C9803 with Member cost-share waived when billed with the following diagnosis codes in any position:
Diagnosis Code Description Z03.818 Encounter for observation for suspected exposure to other biologic agents ruled out Z20.828 Contact with and exposure to other viral communicable diseases R05 Cough R06.02 Shortness of breath R50.9 Fever, unspecified Z20.822 Contact with and (suspected) exposure to COVID-19 Z86.16 Personal history of COVID-19 New HCPCS Lab Code
Effective for dates of service January 1, 2021 and after, in order to receive the higher payment from CMS during the Public Health Emergency, the new HCPCS code U0005 must be used to signify that the laboratory is effectively turning around their high throughput test (i.e., they were “completed within two calendar days of the specimen being collected, meaning, the results of the test[s were] finalized and ready for release”). This code should be submitted along with U0003 or U0004.
Pre-op Testing
Pre-op COVID-19 diagnostic testing is covered for all Members with no cost share. MVP will not reimburse separately for diagnostic pre-op testing for MVP commercial and Medicaid Members as it will be considered global to the surgery, as are all other pre-op tests. Providers billing for MVP Medicare Members will be reimbursed based on CMS Guidelines.
COVID-19 Antibody Testing
Only a small number of the serologic assays to identify antibodies to SARS-CoV-2are officially approved by the FDA. Providers are strongly encouraged to only use the tests officially approved by the FDA. Information about the tests is found on the FDA’s website.
If performed, use the following codes to ensure member cost-share is waived*:
CPT Code Description 86328 Immunoassay for infectious agent antibody(ies), qualitative or semiquantitative, single step method (eg, reagent strip); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID-19) 86769 Antibody; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID-19) Providers should be aware of the following when ordering serologic assays for COVID-19:
- Serologic tests should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose or exclude SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Negative results do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in those who have been in contact with the virus.
- Positive results may be due to past or present infection with non-SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus strains, such as coronavirus strains seen with the common cold.
- Testing will not provide any information on a person’s immunity or risk of re-infection, but rather just that someone has been exposed.
In addition, the following lab codes will also be covered at no cost-share to the member:
CPT Code Description 87631 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); respiratory virus (eg, adenovirus, influenza virus, coronavirus, metapneumovirus, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus), includes multiplex reverse transcription, when performed, and multiplex amplified probe technique, multiple types or subtypes, 3-5 targets 87635 Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (COVID-19), amplified probe technique U0001 Reported for coronavirus testing using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2019 Novel Coronavirus Real Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Test Panel. U0002 Reported for validated non-CDC laboratory tests for SARS-CoV-2/2019-nCoV (COVID-19). *Medicare MSA plan members must meet their deductible in order for the cost-share to be waived.
COVID-19 Treatment
Treatment
MVP has extended the Member cost-share waiver for COVID-19 treatment costs for any site of service, including inpatient hospitalizations and emergency room visits, for New York fully insured health plans and Medicare health plans through 7/31/2021. Medicare MSA Members must first meet their deductible to achieve $0 cost-share. The Member cost-share waiver for Vermont fully insured health plans has been extended through 3/1/2022. Self-funded employer groups have the option to waive COVID-19 treatment costs for their plan participants.
Please note, MVP is abiding by guidance put forth by all regulating bodies and will provide coverage accordingly. As regulatory dates change, so will the dates associated with MVP coverage
To ensure Member cost-share is waived for applicable Members as described above, use the following codes for the treatment of COVID-19:
Diagnosis Code Description U07.1 2019-nCoV acute respiratory disease J12.82 Pneumonia due to coronavirus disease 2019 M35.81 Multisystem inflammatory syndrome M35.89 Other specified systemic involvement of connective tissue In addition, in Vermont, MVP will waive member cost-share for applicable members for dates of service from 3/13/2020 through 3/31/2020 when the following code is billed:
Diagnosis Code Description B97.29 Other coronavirus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere For COVID-19 treatment performed 4/1/2020 or after, bill U07.1 as the primary diagnosis on the claim except:
- For obstetrics patients as indicated in Section I.C.15.s. for COVID-19 in pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium.
- For a COVID-19 infection that progresses to sepsis, see Section I.C.1.d. Sepsis, Severe Sepsis, and Septic Shock.
- For a pneumonia case confirmed as due to COVID-19, assign codes U07.1 and J12.89 (other viral pneumonia).
- For a patient with acute bronchitis confirmed as due to COVID-19, assign codes U07.1, and J20.8 (acute bronchitis due to other specified organisms).
- For acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19, assign codes U07.1 and J80 (acute respiratory distress syndrome).
For more information, consult the CDC Coding and Reporting Guidelines.
Monoclonal Antibodies COVID-19 Billing Guidance
The FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the following investigational monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19:
- Casirivimab and imdevimab
- Bamlanivimab
- Bamlanivimab and etesevimab
The EUA allows any of these three treatments to be administered to non-hospitalized adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age and older weighing at least 40kg) with confirmed COVID-19 infection, who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, and are at high risk for progressing to severe symptoms and hospitalization. For purposes of the EUA Casirivimab and imdevimab must be administered together by intravenous (IV) infusion.
Allocation and distribution of the treatments are determined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response (HHS/ASPR).
MVP will reimburse for the administration of the treatments listed above at no cost share to MVP Medicaid Managed Care and commercial Members when the codes below are submitted. MVP will not provide payment for the monoclonal antibody products that health care providers receive for free, as will be the case upon the product’s initial availability in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
- M0239 (intravenous infusion, bamlanivimab-xxxx, includes infusion and post administration monitoring)
- M0243 (intravenous infusion, casirivimab and imdevimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring)
- M0245 (intravenous infusion, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring
Providers should bill Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) directly for the monoclonal antibody products and administration of these products to MVP Members enrolled in Medicare Advantage. Reimbursement submitted to MVP for these Members will be denied.
COVID-19 Vaccines
MVP covers approved COVID-19 vaccines at no cost-share to Members in all plans.
Medicare MembersEffective January 1, 2022, MVP Health Care® (MVP) will reimburse Participating Providers and out-of-network providers for the cost of COVID-19 vaccines and their administration, as well as antibody treatment, to MVP Members enrolled in Medicare Advantage in 2022. Providers should no longer submit claims to Medicare Fee-for-Service.
New York Commercial and Medicaid MembersWhen COVID-19 vaccine doses are provided by the government without charge, only bill for the vaccine administration. MVP will reimburse Providers for the administration of the vaccine when the following codes are used:
CPT Code
Description
0001A
Pfizer-BioNtech Immunization Administration, first dose
0002A
Pfizer-BioNtech Immunization Administration, second dose
0003A
Pfizer-BioNtech Immunization Administration, third dose
0004A
Pfizer-BioNtech Immunization Administration, booster dose
0011A
Moderna Immunization Administration, first dose
0012A
Moderna Immunization Administration, second dose
0013A
Moderna Immunization Administration, third dose
0031A
Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) Immunization Administration, first dose
0034A
Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) Immunization Administration, booster dose
0051A
Pfizer-BioNTech Immunization Administration, preservative free, first dose
0052A
Pfizer-BioNTech Immunization Administration, preservative free, second dose
0053A
Pfizer-BioNTech Immunization Administration, preservative free, third dose
0054A
Pfizer-BioNTech Immunization Administration, preservative free, booster dose
New York Providers should not include the vaccine codes (91300, 91301, and 91303) on the claim when the vaccines are free.
Vaccine codes should not be included on claims when the vaccines are free of charge:
CPT Code
Description
91300
Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine
91301
Moderna vaccine
91303
Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine
91305
Pfizer-BioNTech, preservative free
Antibody Treatment Codes
CPT Code
Description
M0240
Intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection, casirivimab and imdevimab includes infusion or injection, and post administration monitoring, subsequent repeat doses
M0241
Intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection, casirivimab and imdevimab includes infusion or injection, and post administration monitoring in the home or residence, this includes a beneficiary’s home that has been made provider-based to the hospital during the COVID-19 public health emergency, subsequent repeat doses
M0243
Intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection, casirivimab and imdevimab includes infusion or injection, and post administration monitoring
M0244
Intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection, casirivimab and imdevimab includes infusion or injection, and post administration monitoring in the home or residence; this includes a beneficiary’s home that has been made provider-based to the hospital during the COVID-19 public health emergency
M0245
intravenous infusion, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring
M0246
Intravenous infusion, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring in the home or residence; this includes a beneficiary’s home that has been made provider-based to the hospital during the COVID-19 public health emergency
M0247
Intravenous infusion, sotrovimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring
M0248
Intravenous infusion, sotrovimab, includes infusion and post administration monitoring in the home or residence; this includes a beneficiary’s home that has been made provider-based to the hospital during the COVID-19 public health emergency
M0249
Intravenous infusion, tocilizumab, for hospitalized adults and pediatric patients (2 years of age and older) with COVID-19 who are receiving systemic corticosteroids and require supplemental oxygen, non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) only, includes infusion and post administration monitoring, first dose
M0250
Intravenous infusion, tocilizumab, for hospitalized adults and pediatric patients (2 years of age and older) with COVID-19 who are receiving systemic corticosteroids and require supplemental oxygen, non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) only, includes infusion and post administration monitoring, second dose
Q0240
Injection, casirivimab and imdevimab, 600 mg
Q0243
Injection, casirivimab and imdevimab, 2400 mg
Q0244
Injection, casirivimab and imdevimab, 1200 mg
Q0245
Injection, bamlanivimab and etesevimab, 2100 mg
Q0247
Injection, sotrovimab, 500 mg
Q0249
Injection, tocilizumab, for hospitalized adults and pediatric patients (2 years of age and older) with COVID-19 who are receiving systemic corticosteroids and require supplemental oxygen, non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) only, 1 mg
Note: Codes M0249-50 and Q0249 should be used for inpatient only.
Vermont OnlyMVP Commercial Members
In addition to the vaccine administration code, Vermont Providers must also include the vaccine code— billed with a $0.00 or $0.01 charge on the claim. COVID-19 vaccines are not considered state-supplied; therefore, providers should not use the SL modifier.
Administration Code
Short Description
Vaccine Code
Effective Date
0001A
Pfizer vaccine – 1st dose
91300
12/11/2020
0002A
Pfizer vaccine – 2nd dose
91300
12/11/2020
0003A
Pfizer vaccine – 3rd dose
91300
8/12/2021
0004A*
Pfizer vaccine – Booster
91300
9/22/2021
0011A
Moderna vaccine – 1st dose
91301
12/18/2020
0012A
Moderna vaccine – 2nd dose
91301
12/18/2020
0013A
Moderna vaccine – 3rd dose
91301
8/12/2021
0031A
Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine – 1st dose
91303
2/27/2021
0034A*
Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine – Booster
91303
10/20/2021
0051A
Pfizer ready-to-use vaccine – 1st dose
91305
9/22/2021
0052A
Pfizer ready-to-use vaccine – 2nd dose
91305
9/22/2021
0053A
Pfizer ready-to-use vaccine – 3rd dose
91305
9/22/2021
0054A*
Pfizer ready-to-use vaccine – Booster
91305
9/22/2021
0064A*
Moderna lower dose vaccine – Booster
91306
10/20/2021
0071A
Pfizer Pediatric vaccine – 1st dose
91307
10/29/2021
0072A
Pfizer Pediatric vaccine – 2nd dose
91307
10/29/2021
*CDC guidance regarding eligibility for a booster dose is available for review at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html.
Following AMA and CMS guidance, the administration code must match the manufacturer code of the vaccine provided at the encounter. The Vaccine Administration (Vermont Only) Payment Policy will be updated with these additional codes. To review the current policy, visit mvphealthcare.com/policies and select Payment Policies, Effective January 1, 2022, then select Vaccine Administration (Vermont Only).
MVP Medicare Advantage Plan MembersAs of January 1, 2022, COVID-19 vaccine administration claims for MVP Medicare Advantage Plan Members should be submitted to MVP. Providers should not include the vaccine codes on the claim, when COVID-19 vaccine doses are provided by the government at no charge and should only bill for the vaccine administration.
Telemedicine
MVP is covering all telemedicine services at no cost-share to the Member during the declared State of Emergency.
Providers should submit claims for Covered Services as outlined below in order for the Member cost-share to be waived:
- Submit the appropriate Evaluation & Management (E/M) or CPT code (for example 99212 or 99213)
- Submit the claim with the appropriate place of services (POS) code that would have been reported had the services been furnished in person.
- Claim modifiers “95” or “GT” should be appended as appropriate on each claim that represents a service delivered via Telemedicine.
- 95 modifier – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunication system.
- GT modifier – Via interactive audio and video telecommunication systems.
Providers do not have to have an existing patient relationship with a Member to be reimbursed for telephone triage services and health care services delivered through telemedicine or audio-only telephone.
While we encourage Providers to bill consistent with an office visit – and understand that certain services can be time consuming and complex even when provided virtually – such services should be coded at a level of care appropriate for provision through a telephonic mechanism and Providers should maintain documentation in the medical record for the level of care billed.
Telemedicine visits will be included in any applicable Member benefit visit limitations.
Telemedicine Platforms
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will exercise its enforcement discretion and will not impose penalties for noncompliance with the regulatory requirements under the HIPAA Rules against covered health care providers in connection with the good faith provision of telemedicine during the COVID-19 State of Emergency. Providers who want to use audio or video communication technology to provide telemedicine during the State of Emergency can use any non-public facing remote communication product that is available to communicate with patients.
- Examples of Acceptable Platforms (non-public facing): Apple FaceTime, Google G Suite Hangouts Meet, Skype for Business
- Examples of Unacceptable Platforms (public facing): Facebook Live, Twitch, TikTok
Store and Forward
In Vermont, MVP is covering Store and Forward technology when the below code, or any other appropriate procedure code, is billed, along with modifier GQ:
CPT Code Description G2010 Remote evaluation of recorded video and/or images submitted by the patient (e.g., store and forward), including interpretation with follow-up with the patient within 24 business hours, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment. Reimbursement is based on contractual agreement.
TeleMental Health
Effective 3/13/2020, during the duration of the State of Emergency, Behavioral Health Providers, including qualified practitioners and services Providers, may deliver Covered Services via TeleMental Health, including telephonic services at no cost-share to the Member.
Providers should submit the appropriate E/M or CPT code along with the POS code that would have been reported had the services been furnished in person and use claim modifiers “95” or “GT” on each claim that represents a service delivered via TeleMental Health.
- 95 modifier – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunication system.
- GT modifier – Via interactive audio and video telecommunication systems.
Providers in OMH/OASAS Licensed Facilities or Designated Programs should work with the NYS Office of Mental Health (OMH) to ensure the required attestation is on file with OMH. Access the Self-Attestation of Compliance to Offer TeleMental Health Services form.
Behavioral Health Providers may bill for Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Covered Services which would otherwise be covered in a Commercial Member’s Subscriber Contract for in-person visits as a TeleMental Health visit at no cost-share to the Member.
Telephone Visits
Vermont Commercial Members
As of 3/13/2020, MVP is covering telephone-only codes as a telemedicine visit at no cost-share to members in Vermont. Providers will be reimbursed same as in person visits, rates based on their Provider Agreement.
Providers should submit claims for telephone only visits as telemedicine visits for Covered Services as outlined below in order for the Member cost-share to be waived:
- Submit the appropriate Evaluation & Management (E/M) or CPT code (for example 99212 or 99213)
- Submit the claim with the POS code that would have been reported had the services been furnished in person
- Claim modifiers “95” or “GT” should be appended as appropriate on each claim that represents a service delivered via Telemedicine.
- 95 modifier – Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via real-time interactive audio and video telecommunication system.
- GT modifier – Via interactive audio and video telecommunication systems.
Providers do not have to have an existing patient relationship with a Member to be reimbursed for telephone triage services and health care services delivered through telemedicine or audio-only telephone.
While we encourage Providers to bill consistent with an office visit – and understand that certain services can be time consuming and complex even when provided virtually – such services should be coded at a level of care appropriate for provision through a telephonic mechanism and Providers should maintain documentation in the medical record for the level of care billed.
In addition, MVP will also cover the following telephonic codes. These will be covered at no cost-share to the member during the declared State of Emergency.
CPT Code Description 99441 Telephone evaluation and management service; 5-10 minutes of medical discussion 99442 Telephone evaluation and management service; 11-20 minutes of medical discussion 99443 Telephone evaluation and management service; 21-30 minutes of medical discussion New York Commercial Members
Virtual Check-In
Providers should bill the following G codes for all Commercial members when conducting visits via telephone. These will be covered at no cost-share* to members during the declared State of Emergency.
CPT Code Description G2012 Brief communication technology-based service, e.g. virtual check-in, by a physician or other qualified health care professional who can report evaluation and management [E/M] services, provided to an established patient, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment; 5-10 minutes of medical discussion G2010 Remote evaluation of recorded video and/or images submitted by the patient (e.g., store and forward), including interpretation with follow-up with the patient within 24 business hours, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment. The codes below may also be used for telephonic visits with Commercial members. These will be covered at no cost-share* to the member during the declared State of Emergency.
CPT Code Description 99441 Telephone evaluation and management service; 5-10 minutes of medical discussion 99442 Telephone evaluation and management service; 11-20 minutes of medical discussion 99443 Telephone evaluation and management service; 21-30 minutes of medical discussion Self-funded members should consult directly with their employer to see if their employer is waiving cost-share for telemedicine or telephone visits.
New York Medicaid Members
The codes below should be used for telephonic visits with Medicaid members. These will be covered at no cost-share to the member during the declared State of Emergency.
CPT Code Description 99441 Telephone evaluation and management service; 5-10 minutes of medical discussion 99442 Telephone evaluation and management service; 11-20 minutes of medical discussion 99443 Telephone evaluation and management service; 21-30 minutes of medical discussion Medicare Specific Information
Effective 3/1/2020, MVP is following the payment rules published in the Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Policy and Regulatory Revisions in Response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, Interim Final Rule with Comment (IFC).
COVID-19 Testing Coding
See coding section above.
Telemedicine for Medicare Members
During the current State of Emergency related to COVID-19, telemedicine visits for Medicare Members will be paid at the same rate as if the visit was in person. 1. Effective 3/13/2020, telemedicine visits billed with codes 99201-99215 with the POS code that would have been reported had the services been furnished in person, and the appropriate appended modifier, “95” or “GT”, will be reimbursed at no cost-share to the Member. This applies to all services (E/M, Mental Health Counseling, and preventive services) that would have otherwise been face-to-face.
The following modifications have been made for the duration of the declared State of Emergency:
- Location restrictions on Originating Sites: Medicare Members can be in their home for the telemedicine visit.
- Providers may conduct telemedicine visits with a Member that is not already established (new patients).
Providers must use an interactive audio and video telecommunications system that permits real-time communication between the Provider (“Distant Site”) and the Member (“Originating Site”). When it is possible for Covered Services to be furnished via telemedicine, MVP will pay for such services. Such services should be coded at a level of care appropriate for provision through a telemedicine mechanism. Providers should maintain documentation in the medical record for the level of care billed. MVP may request additional documentation to review and confirm such level of care.
The following new codes should be used for telephone visits with Medicare Members to ensure cost-share is waived:
CPT Code Description 98966 Telephone assessment and management service by a non-physician, 5-10 min 98967 Telephone assessment and management service by a non-physician, 11-20 min 98968 Telephone assessment and management service by a non-physician, 21-30 min 99441 Telephone assessment and management service by a physician, 5-10 min 99442 Telephone assessment and management service by a physician, 11-20 min 99443 Telephone assessment and management service by a physician, 21-30 min G0071 Payment for communication technology-based services for 5 minutes or more of a virtual -non-face-to-face communication between a rural health clinic -RHC or federally qualified health center-FQHC More information about the Interim Final Rule can be accessed here.
Virtual Check-In
Consistent with CMS guidance, Providers should bill the following G codes for all Medicare Members when conducting visits via telephone. These are the only codes that may be used for Medicare Members and will be covered at no cost-share to Members during the declared State of Emergency. Claims should include the appropriate place of service code and modifiers should be appended per appropriate coding guidelines.
CPT Code Description G2012 Brief communication technology-based service, e.g. virtual check-in, by a physician or other qualified health care professional who can report E/M services, provided to an established patient, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment; 5-10 minutes of medical discussion G2010 Remote evaluation of recorded video and/or images submitted by the patient (e.g., store and forward), including interpretation with follow-up with the patient within 24 business hours, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment. Medicare E-Visits
Medicare Part B pays for E-visits, or patient-initiated online E/M conducted via a patient portal. Providers who may independently bill Medicare for E/M visits (for instance, physicians and nurse practitioners) can bill the following codes:
CPT Code Description 99421 Online digital E/M service, for an established patient, for up to 7 days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 5–10 minutes 99422 Online digital E/M service, for an established patient, for up to 7 days cumulative time during the 7 days; 11– 20 minutes 99423 Online digital evaluation and management service, for an established patient, for up to 7 days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 21 or more minutes Clinicians who may not independently bill for E/M visits (examples include but are not limited to: physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, clinical psychologists) may provide E-visits and bill the following codes:
CPT Code Description G2061 Qualified non-physician healthcare professional online assessment and management, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 5–10 minutes G2062 Qualified non-physician healthcare professional online assessment and management service, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 11–20 minutes G2063 Qualified non-physician qualified healthcare professional assessment and management service, for an established patient, for up to seven days, cumulative time during the 7 days; 21 or more minutes Claims should include the appropriate place of service code and modifiers should be appended per appropriate coding guidelines.
View a summary of Medicare Telemedicine Services.
Prior Authorizations
All Lines of Business
MVP has suspended prior authorization requirements for all lines of business for:
- Inpatient surgery and inpatient admissions to any hospital
- Post-acute care services after discharge from any inpatient stay (including prior authorization requirements administered by naviHealth)
- All Radiation Therapy and High-Tech Radiology (MRI’s, MRA’s, CT’s, Nuclear Cardiology and PET Scans) managed by eviCore*
- All musculoskeletal codes managed by Magellan*/NIA
*As of 6/2/2020, Magellan and eviCore are accepting requests to obtain prior authorizations for dates of service 6/19/2020 and beyond. Pre authorization is not required for dates of service from 3/20/2020 through 6/18/2020.
Commercial Fully Insured, Self-Funded Plans, and Medicaid
MVP will continue to perform prior authorization review for all other services, including:
- Outpatient elective procedures, in-office procedures, durable medical equipment, and physician administered drugs
- Use of out-of-network and out-of-state providers for provider office, ambulatory surgical and outpatient facility care
Medicare Advantage
MVP will continue to perform prior authorization review for all other in-network services, including:
- Outpatient elective procedures, in-office procedures, durable medical equipment, and physician administered drugs
Utilization Management
Acute Care Facilities
All Lines of Business
As is standard business practice, services performed in an urgent care facility or an emergency room do not require prior authorization.MVP is suspending the following:
- Admission and concurrent review requirements for acute care facility admissions
- Performing retrospective review upon receipt of a claim for an Acute Inpatient admission not previously notified
After June 18, 2020, MVP reserves the right to retrospectively review all admissions that occurred during this 90-day timeframe regardless of notification to MVP. MVP reserves the right to retrospectively audit any inpatient claim approvals made from March 20 – June 18, 2020.
Post-Acute Care Services
Skilled Nursing and IP Rehabilitation Facilities
All Lines of Business
MVP has suspended prior authorization for transfers to Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Facilities. It is encouraged that Skilled Nursing and Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities continue to notify MVP (for Medicare Advantage Members continue to notify naviHealth) within 48 hours of admission.- MVP will waive the 3-day hospital stay rule, if it exists, for all lines of business.
- It is preferred that members continue to be directed to participating facilities. MVP and naviHealth will not reject admissions to non-participating facilities
- To find participating rehabilitation facilities and skilled nursing facilities, visit mvphealthcare.com/searchproviders. After you enter a zip code and choose the member’s plan type, click Search All, then type in “rehabilitation” or “skilled nursing”. You can use the filters to adjust the distance and other preferred attributes.
- o If you need assistance navigating the Provider Search tool, or would like a list provided to you, contact the MVP Customer Care Center for Provider Services at
1-800-684-9286.
- If you need assistance with discharge planning, please contact your assigned MVP UM representative.
- It is expected that transfers are medically necessary. MVP and naviHealth will perform concurrent review during member stays at skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities. All Adverse Determination adjudication will follow all applicable NYS DFS rules for 90-day extension of timeframe for appeals.
- Medicare Advantage Members
- If a skilled nursing facility considers care no longer medically necessary, naviHealth should be notified prior to issuing a Notice of Medical Non-Coverage (NOMNC).
After June 18, 2020, MVP reserves the right to retrospectively review all skilled nursing or acute inpatient rehabilitation facility admissions that occurred during this 90-day timeframe regardless of notification to MVP.
Home Care Services
Medicare Advantage
MVP has suspended the prior authorization for home care services for Medicare Advantage members.- Home Health Agencies may continue to evaluate members home health needs without prior authorization.
- It is encouraged that Home Health Agencies continue to provide minimal demographic information at start of care
- Name of Agency
- Name of Patient
- Date of Birth
- Member Number
- Member Address
- Ordering Physician Name
- Diagnosis
- Start of Care or Resumption of Care Date (if following a readmission)
- If the agency determines that they need more than 10 visits, it is encouraged that you submit additional visits and supply naviHealth with the complete OASIS, 485, and last two visit notes for each discipline requested.
After June 18, 2020, MVP reserves the right to retrospectively review all home health care that occurred during this 90-day timeframe regardless of notification to MVP.
Commercial and Medicaid
As always, prior authorization is not required for home health care services.Admission Requirements for Behavioral Health
All Lines of Business
MVP has modified the admission requirements for inpatient mental health, mental health residential, inpatient substance use detoxification, inpatient substance use rehabilitation, and substance use residential for 90 Days.
Providers should notify MVP within two business days of the admission to the above levels of care. Concurrent reviews are suspended for all services mentioned above. MVP will continue to assist in coordinating care and discharge planning throughout the member’s stay.
MVP clinicians will contact facilities for periodic consultations. These consultations are not for Utilization Review purposes, but rather for coordination of care regarding the member’s treatment and discharge plans. MVP is also offering assistance as needed during these consultations to remove any barriers there may be related to post discharge care.
When the member is discharged, the provider should notify MVP of the discharge date along with the discharge plan within 24 hours of discharge. This includes members leaving against medical advice (AMA).
As a reminder, Partial Hospitalization and Continued Day Treatment no longer requires prior authorization as of March 17, 2020.
After June 18, 2020, MVP reserves the right to retrospectively review all admissions that occurred during this 90-day timeframe regardless of notification to MVP.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) recently released a Circular Letter reminding health plans that New York State Participating Providers cannot charge patients additional fees, beyond their standard cost-share for covered services, for personal protective equipment (PPE). To access the DFS Circular Letter, click on the link below. If your practice charged Non-Medicare MVP Members for PPE, you must fill out the PPE Survey.
Prescriptions / Pharmacy
MVP members are now able to obtain an early refill on a 30-day supply of maintenance medications at an in-network pharmacy, regardless of whether the state the member resides in has called a state of emergency. Medicaid members who are quarantined or whose provider suggests self-quarantine may contact CVS to request a 90-day supply of maintenance medications during the COVID crisis. MVP Medicare members may request a 90-day supply of medications at an in-network pharmacy. Members should speak with their pharmacist to enter the applicable emergency supply override code into their dispensing systems to trigger the early refill override.
Members with a mail-order benefit taking maintenance medications should be encouraged to take advantage of the ability to receive a 90-day supply of medication through the CVS Caremark Mail Order pharmacy and mailed directly to their home. Some retail pharmacies will also mail prescriptions to a home address; members should be encouraged to please ask their pharmacist if this is an option.
Controlled substances and specialty medications will be exempt from this override process. Please remember that most specialty medications may be obtained from the CVS Specialty Pharmacy, which mails prescriptions to a member’s home already.
MVP Pharmacy Billing for COVID-19 Testing (PDF)Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Therapists
Physical therapists (PT), occupational therapists (OT), and speech therapists (ST) may render telemedicine services to MVP commercial and Medicaid members in New York and Vermont. Certified Athletic Trainers may render telemedicine services to commercial members in Vermont.
During the declared State of Emergency, MVP will reimburse for PT, OT, and ST services for initial and subsequent visits for new and existing patients. PT, OT, and ST providers may not perform telemedicine visits telephonically. Providers should only bill within their scope of practice and should not bill for physical manipulation if they are not physically manipulating the patient. All visits will count toward a members’ annual allotment of visits.
Claims submitted with standard CPT codes and the appropriate place of service will be paid with no cost-share for Medicaid and commercial members. In addition, either modifier 95 or GT should be appended to the claim as appropriate.
See the Telemedicine section for more information.
Gia Health Care Services
Beginning January 1, 2021, MVP will launch Gia℠ to help connect members to the right care, right away. myERnow will be retired and MVP members should be redirected to Gia or “start with Gia” for their health care needs.
Gia will be available for free on New York and Vermont fully insured plans, Medicaid, and most Medicare plans. Self-funded employers can elect to offer Gia. Medicare MVP SmartFund MSA, MVP RxCare, and Child Health Plus members are not eligible for Gia services.
Gia includes access to telemedicine services, including 24/7 urgent and emergency care, psychiatry, behavioral health, and more, and referrals to in-person care from nearby doctors, specialists, labs, pharmacies, and other providers.
Gia telemedicine is not the same as a member using their current doctors’ telehealth platform or offering. If an MVP member makes a telehealth appointment or has a telehealth visit with his/her own doctor, and not through Gia, co-pays or a cost-share will apply per plan details.
Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Special Assistants, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists
During the State of Emergency:
- Nurse practitioners will be able to practice without a written practice agreement or collaborative relationship with a doctor or hospital.
- Physician assistants and specialist assistants can provide medical services without oversight from a supervising physician.
- Certified registered nurse anesthetists are permitted to administer anesthesia without the supervision of a physician.
Additional Resources
Federal Agency Resources
- HHS COVID-19 Updates
- CMS Current Emergencies
- SAMHSA COVID-19 Resources and Information
- CDC COVID-19 Guidance
- FDA COVID-19 Information
- Resources for Ordering & Administering COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF)
- COVID-19 Vaccine Quick Reference Guide for Healthcare Professionals (PDF)
State Agency Resources
- NYS DFS COVID-19 Industry Guidance
- NYS DOH COVID-19 Guidance for Medicaid Providers
- NYS Office of Mental Health COVID-19 Updates
- NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports COVID-19 Updates
- Vermont DOH COVID-19 Guidance for Health Care Professionals
- Physicians ToolKit Letter (PDF)