Buffalo, N.Y. –BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York today announced a free online Coronavirus (COVID-19) screening tool, designed to help the community identify symptoms and get reliable information regarding care.
The simple, interactive tool prompts individuals with a series of questions about their symptoms, as well as medical history and recent exposure, to help determine the most appropriate care. Results and recommendations are immediate with a personalized risk score and may include actions such as scheduling a telehealth visit with a primary care physician; monitoring symptoms; or seeking emergency care.
BlueCross BlueShield’s free Coronavirus self-assessment tool is available to the entire community, including the health plan’s nearly one million members. Individuals can access the user-friendly tool via phone, tablet or computer at www.bcbswny.com/coronavirus.
The content was developed by BlueCross BlueShield’s team of medical professionals, based on the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), and implemented by its digital experience team. Users will not be required to create a login, and responses will not be shared with third-party organizations.
Additional resources are also available for BlueCross BlueShield members and the community, including FAQ’s on COVID-19 symptoms, coverage and care, information on telehealth and health and wellness tips, as well as up-to-date best practices from the CDC for washing hands, disinfecting surfaces and monitoring symptoms at www.bcbswny.com/coronavirus.
“We recognize the health care professionals who are on the frontlines of this pandemic, and as the region’s largest health plan, we are proud to do our part in supporting our local community and health care system in addressing this,” said David W. Anderson, President and CEO, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York. “While this tool doesn’t replace medical care, it ensures that all individuals in our community have access to educational resources to help connect them with the care they need.”
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About BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York
BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York is a division of HealthNow New York Inc., one of New York’s leading health care companies that provides access to quality health care and solutions for members throughout Upstate New York. Since 1936, BlueCross BlueShield has helped millions of people gain access to health care. Today, we offer a full range of insured, self-insured, and government programs and services covering businesses, families, and individuals, as well dental and vision plans and stop-loss coverage. The company contributes significantly to organizations that promote physical health, community health and our region’s health, and BlueCross BlueShield employees also raise and donate several hundred thousand dollars each year. Headquartered in Buffalo, NY, the company is an independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association.