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March 27th, 2020
COVID-19 News & Updates
As you know, the Coronavirus is having an impact on business and society. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by the situation. We will be providing daily and weekly updates about COVID-19 to you. We hope that you find these interesting and informative.

What is in the Stimulus Package?

The $2 trillion stimulus package, negotiated by Republican and Democratic leaders, is the largest economic stimulus measure in modern history. The bill is a $2 trillion combination of tax provisions and other stimulus measures, including emergency business lending. The measure promises to provide help for struggling American families and businesses, as well as health care workers on the front lines of the coronavirus outbreak.

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We are committed to support you and your employees by providing regular, timely updates to keep you informed.

From Cigna
March 27th, 2020

We know many of our clients are looking to us to help address leave-of-absence policies, evolving federal and state legislation, and disability coverage for their employees. We maintain an open dialogue with regulators, lawmakers, and industry leaders to address the challenges you face and we’ve been working hard to develop resources and guidance to help.

We've updated the Cigna Group Insurance  Frequently Asked Questions sheet with new information. Some key highlights:

  • We are extending our continuation of coverage for all individuals who were members of an eligible class under a Cigna Group Insurance policy on March 1, 2020 and were subsequently furloughed, temporarily laid off or had their hours reduced as the result of business decisions relating to COVID-19. They will remain eligible until May 31, 2020 provided they remain employed and premiums continue to be paid. Please see our FAQ for additional details.
  • Find answers to help you understand the new law passed in the state of New York regarding Emergency Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave for COVID-19.

We continue to track federal and statutory legislation to determine revisions to paid/unpaid leave and disability plans. Our  Federal and Statutory Leave and Disability Plan Reference Guide   has been updated with the latest information.

Please remember to share our 24-hour, toll-free help line (1-866-912-1687) in the U.S. to connect people, whether or not they’re Cigna customers, with qualified clinicians who can provide support and guidance.

For those clients and customers with Cigna medical coverage

Cigna has taken a number of actions to support all those we serve. On Monday, Cigna shared how they will  make it easier for hospitals to transfer patients to long term acute care facilities   to help manage the high volumes of COVID-19 patients. You and your employees can stay up-to-date with the latest updates by visiting the  COVID-19 Resource Center.
Interim Policy on Teledentistry During COVID-19 Pandemic

We received this from Delta Delta
March 27th, 2020

We want to make you aware of an important change to Delta Dental of Arkansas’ coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
Based on mandates and recommendations by the governor, the Arkansas State Dental Association and the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners, dental offices are restricting service to urgent or emergency cases only.
 
During this time, Delta Dental of Arkansas will benefit D0140 (Problem Focused Examination) per group contract whether provided in a dental office or virtually through teledentistry, effective from March 20, 2020, until the public health situation is resolved.
 
The service will be paid providing the patient has coverage/benefits available. Individual consideration will be given to claims that exceed the policy limitations.
 
The health and safety of our providers, members and employees is Delta Dental of Arkansas’ top priority as we attempt to navigate the disruptions related to COVID-19. We will continue to evaluate these interim policies as necessary.
 
Yours in good health,
Delta Dental of Arkansas
Daily Updates and Facts
March 27th, 2020

On the emerging novel COVID-19 from the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security

On behalf of all of our team, please know that we are here for you and that we will continue to do everything we can to support you during this time. Please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything you need! 

The Hatcher Agency

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