The Flu and Pneumonia vaccines

Oct 09, 2017

“Getting the flu and pneumonia vaccines  are two important ways to avoid getting sick. Your medical plan covers the flu vaccine  at 100 percent once  per flu season. The pneumonia vaccine is covered in full once  per lifetime or more  frequently if medically necessary. However,  keep in mind that not all providers can bill Blue Cross directly for these services.  This means you may have to pay out-of-pocket and get  reimbursed by Blue Cross. The easiest way to avoid paying out of pocket for your flu or pneumonia shot is to check with your doctor, health department or pharmacy before you go to make sure they can bill Blue Cross directly.”  Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Best of Health, Fall 2017, pg6

If you need to get reimbursed for a flu vaccine, follow  the steps below:

1.   Go to bcbsm.com/claimsmedicare.

2.   Click Medicare Plus BlueSM  PPO plans under What you’ll need.

3.   Click Medicare Advantage Member Application for Payment Consideration (PDF) to access the form.

4.   Print, complete the form and mail it to:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Imaging  and Support Services
P.O. Box 32593
Detroit,  MI 48232-0593

Shingles vaccine:  Is it covered?

“The Zostavax injection,  known as the shingles vaccination, is covered by your retirement system when you get  it at a participating network  pharmacy. If you have questions, call OptumRx® at -855-577-6517.”  Blue Cross/Blue Shield, “Best of Health, Fall 2017, pg 8