SMU has been working proactively with Blue Cross Blue Shield to establish the coordination of benefits for health care related to Coronavirus (COVID-19). Testing to diagnose COVID-19, when medically necessary and consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, will be covered at 100% regardless of the SMU medical plan you and your family may be covered under. All SMU Health plan options are administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas.
Testing will not be subject to copays or the deductible or co-insurance, and no prior authorization is needed. Treatment cost-sharing related to COVID-19 has also been waived. Treatment related to COVID-19 includes deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. The waiver applies to costs associated with COVID-19 treatment at in-network facilities and treatment for out-of-network emergencies.
For questions regarding providers and facilities contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas at bcbstx.com or call 877-768-2005. For information regarding your specific plan, please validate your plan within my.SMU and then click here for plan information. Additional questions may  be directed to benefitsu@smu.edu
Additional programs support employees to maintain work-life balance.
MDLive
SMU encourages the use of MDLive at all times of the year, however we would like to bring this benefit to the forefront as it is a benefit that you can use from the convenience of your own home. MDLIVE doctors can help treat many conditions including allergies, asthma, nausea, sinus infections, earache and flu. Whether you’re at home or traveling, access to an independently contracted board-certified doctor is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please note that due to the Coronavirus, there may be some delays at this time.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Under the CARES ACT, SMU health plans can now cover telehealth services pre- deductible without affecting HSA eligibility.
Your cost depends on your SMU medical plan:
- $2,000 Deductible PPO: $10 copay
- $2,800 HDHP: $44 negotiated rate until the deductible has been met, then a $10 copay
- $5,000 HDHP: $44 negotiated rate until the deductible has been met, then covered at 100%
Flexible Spending Accounts
If you elected into either the Health Care Flexible Spending Account or the Health Savings Account, you can use those accounts to pay toward healthcare expenses on a pre-tax basis. These accounts can pay for medical expenses, including treatment for Coronavirus or prescriptions that your doctor may prescribe should they be needed.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Over-the-counter drugs and medicines not prescribed by a physician can now be reimbursed pre-tax. Menstrual care products are now considered eligible expenses. Examples include tampons, pads, liners, cups, sponges, or similar products.
Caregiving Support Program
Cariloop is SMU’s free caregiving support benefit that allows you to connect with a licensed/certified on-demand care coach who can assist with navigating caregiving at a time of need. Should you or a loved one require care at this time or if you have concerns pertaining to potential caregiving scenarios, contact Cariloop at 972-325-5836.
Employee Assistance Program
SMU’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), administered by Magellan Health Services, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and you may receive up to three counselling sessions per issue at no cost. Licensed counselors help employees navigate areas of stress, whether from work, personal life or Coronavirus (COVID19). To initiate a conversation with a specialist, please call Magellan EAP at 877-704-5696.
Alight Solution Health Services
Alight Solution Health Services is available to faculty and staff enrolled in one of the SMU medical plans and helps employees with:
- finding affordable care options (from doctors to cost estimates)
- understanding insurance benefits
- identifying highly rated doctors
- scheduling appointments
- saving on prescription expenses
You can reach SMU’s Alight Health Pro, Olivia Capogna, by calling 800-513-1667 (ext. 3502) or by emailing Olivia.Capogna@alight.com.
