COVID-19

At Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, our top priorities are the health and well-being of our members, employees, and the thousands of health professionals we rely on for good care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the public health emergency (PHE) for COVID-19 ending?
Yes. The COVID-19 PHE ends on May 11, 2023.
What does the end of the PHE mean?
The end of the PHE means that members may see some changes to coverage and/or out-of-pocket costs beginning May 12, 2023.
Will members have to pay for COVID-19 vaccines and boosters now?
Just like other preventive health services, members will have no out-of-pocket costs for the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters when they use an in-network provider. If the member uses an out-of-network provider, the member may have out-of-pocket costs.
Can members still get free at-home COVID-19 tests after May 11, 2023?
Due to the end of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency, over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 testing will no longer be covered beginning May 12, 2023. However, while supplies last, you can order COVID-19 test kits for free from the federal government.
Can members still get a free lab test at a doctor's office or lab?
Members will have coverage for lab tests when received in-network. However, the member will have to pay their copay, deductible and/or coinsurance based on their benefits. If the member uses an out-of-network provider, the member may have additional out-of-pocket costs.
How does this change impact telemedicine for COVID-19-related services?
Beginning May 12, 2023, COVID-19-related care will be treated like any other telemedicine service. For in-network care, any applicable copay, coinsurance and/or deductible will apply beginning May 12, 2023. This includes services received through Horizon CareOnline.
Will COVID-19 treatment still be covered?
COVID-19 treatment will continue to be covered and may be subject to any applicable copay, coinsurance and/or deductible. If members use their out-of-network benefits (when applicable), they may pay more.
WHO NEEDS A BOOSTER?
SCHEDULE TODAY

Vaccines and boosters are the best protection against COVID-19. Schedule your booster today.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY?

As soon as you are able, and if the vaccine is appropriate for you, get vaccinated against COVID-19. In addition, continue to follow common-sense steps to help improve your chances of avoiding exposure to the virus.
Additional Resources
General Resources
- World Health Organization
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronavirus Disease 2019
- National Institutes of Health
- The New Jersey Department of Health
You can also call the New Jersey Department of Health 24-hour public hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or 1-800-962-1253 if you are using an out-of-state phone line.
Mental Health
- Horizon Behavioral Health Website
- Coping with Stress, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) - Taking Care of your Emotional Health, US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)