Blue Cross insurance is a health insurance provider in the United States. Shingles is an infection caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains inactive in the body. In some people, the virus can reactivate years later, causing shingles. Shingles is a painful and itchy rash that can cause blisters and scabs to form. It usually appears on one side of the body, often in a stripe pattern. It can also cause fever, chills, headaches, and body aches.
The most common complication of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia, a condition in which nerve pain persists after the rash has healed. Other possible complications include skin infections, vision loss, and even stroke.
In 2006, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all people aged 60 years and older get the Shingles vaccine, regardless of whether they had ever had chickenpox or shingles. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has since added those aged 50 and older to the list of those recommended getting vaccinated against shingles.
Does Blue Cross Insurance Cover the Shingles Vaccine?
The company’s coverage policies vary by state, but generally, Blue Cross plans cover the Shingles vaccine. In most cases, the vaccine is covered as a preventive service, meaning there are no out-of-pocket costs for the insured person. However, some plans may require a co-payment or coinsurance.
It’s important to check with your specific plan to see what is covered. This can be done by calling the company’s customer service number or by logging into your account on the company’s website.
Who Should Get the Shingles Vaccine?
The Shingles vaccine is recommended for anyone aged 50 and older, even if they have had shingles or chickenpox in the past. People who are immunocompromised or taking certain medications should talk to their doctor about whether the vaccine is right for them.
The vaccine is most effective when given before a person has had shingles. It is also recommended that people who have had shingles in the past get vaccinated in order to help prevent future outbreaks.
The Benefits of Getting the Shingles Vaccine
Getting vaccinated against shingles can help reduce the risk of developing the condition and if a person does get it, it can also reduce the symptoms. It can also help reduce the risk of some of the potential complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.
Additionally, getting vaccinated can help reduce the cost of treating shingles. Treatment can be expensive, and those who are insured may end up with higher out-of-pocket costs if they get shingles and need to pay for medical care.
Conclusion
The Shingles vaccine is recommended for all people aged 50 and up, and it is typically covered by most health insurance plans, including Blue Cross. Getting vaccinated can help reduce the risk of developing shingles, as well as its severity and complications. It can also help reduce the cost of treating shingles if a person does get it. For these reasons, it is important to consider getting vaccinated against shingles.
