Dear Faculty & Staff,
We are starting to get “what if” questions about coronavirus, potential quarantines, and/or closings so we’re writing to remind employees of current policies already in place as well as available healthcare resources under the Wittenberg Anthem plan.
Current Policy
The University has policies in place for situations in which an employee or their family member are diagnosed with an illness.
- The University’s Paid Sick Leave policy is outlined in the Staff Manual beginning on page 27, and information regarding use of sick time to care for a parent, spouse or child begins on page 30. Additionally, where applicable, the Family and Medical Leave Policy is outlined on page 75.
- Working remotely from home may be feasible for some positions should an employee need to be quarantined. In these cases, employees should discuss these options with their supervisor in consultation with Human Resources.
Anthem Resources & Benefits
- Coronavirus claims are being billed & paid as diagnostic by nearly all U.S. healthcare providers & insurance carriers. This means that members on the university plan seeking treatment will be billed for the cost of treatment & prescriptions until the deductible is met. Currently there is no preventive benefit for this strain of coronavirus.
- When seeking medical treatment, use in-network providers & facilities whenever possible.
- If you suspect coronavirus and need to be tested, please see your regular in-network physician or urgent care provider. Use the Emergency Room only in emergency situations.
- For illnesses that do not require diagnostic testing, take advantage of Anthem’s LiveHealth Online resource to seek diagnostic treatment from a physician in the comfort of your own home or office.
- To use Anthem’s LiveHealth Online you must first “Sign Up” using your computer or download the mobile app. We encourage you to DO THAT NOW - before you or a family member gets sick so that it’s ready to go. Then, when you need to see a provider, simply log in and select the doctor you wish to see.
- Remember, dependents age 18 or above must create their own account as required by HIPAA. This is perfect for your college students or young adults still on your plan.
- For more information on coronavirus, visit the CDC coronavirus homepage which included Resources for Households and information on Prevention & Treatment.
As a reminder
There are several precautionary steps you can take to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. These steps include:
- Routinely wash your hands with soap & hot water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash, then wash your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.