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Information updated as at March 12, 2020 at 8:30am.
For up to date information on coronavirus (COVID-19) developments in Bermuda, please visit the Government of Bermuda coronavirus webpage. Global updates are regularly provided by the The World Health Organization (WHO).
What is coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus.
Does my Argus health policy cover testing for COVID-19?
Testing for COVID-19 falls under your usual diagnostic services benefit. Therefore, if a screening test is deemed medically necessary and ordered by a medical professional, it will be covered in accordance with your current health plan benefits.
Will Argus pay for phone or video (telemedicine) calls with my doctor and other local healthcare providers?
Argus will cover phone and online video calls for 60 days (effective March 16, 2020) for eligible members in alignment with guidance from the Bermuda Health Council. To be eligible for this benefit, you must have at least one of the following:
- Displaying, describing or experiencing active symptoms reflective of COVID-19
- Have had a positive COVID-19 test result
- Have an impaired immune system
- Are 70 years or older
- Are directly responsible for providing care to someone with an impaired immune system
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Parent of a new baby
Your doctor and other healthcare providers must get temporary approval from the Bermuda Health Council and Argus to provide these services. You should not have a co-pay for these services.
Am I covered by Argus if I get COVID-19?
Argus will cover treatment for COVID-19 based on your current health benefits plan.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are like an upper respiratory infection, which may include:
- Fever
- Tiredness
- Dry cough
Some patients may experience:
- Aches and pains
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Diarrhoea
Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Older adults, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
How do I obtain medical treatment if I become ill?
If you have the symptoms above and have been in contact with someone who is ill or who have travelled to a high-risk area, call your primary care physician from home. This will allow your doctor to assess your risks and determine if there is a need for treatment.
How do I obtain medical treatment while overseas?
Argus Health clients who experience any health issue while traveling overseas should immediately contact our overseas healthcare administrator, One Team Health, on 1-905-532-2954 or via our US toll-free number 1-855-691-8240. They can also email overseascare@argus.bm for assistance.
If you are planning to travel outside of Bermuda, we urge you to please check whether you will be visiting an affected area and to adjust your travel plans accordingly. “Affected areas” are considered those countries, provinces, territories or cities experiencing ongoing transmission of COVID-19, in contrast to areas reporting only imported cases. The WHO regularly provides updates on affected areas here.
How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
Every individual can take action to help contain the coronavirus and slow the spread. We urge everyone to adopt basic protective measures against the coronavirus as suggested by the WHO.
- Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
- Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
- Stay home if you feel unwell and call your doctor.
What can my business do now to minimize employee exposure to COVID-19?
While every business has different needs, we recommend your company consider viewing the following Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Business in Bermuda fact sheet on the Bermuda Government coronavirus page.