BCBSAZ has temporarily paused the monoclonal antibody treatment program in accordance with federal guidance
With the rise of COVID-19 infections from the Omicron variant, the FDA and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have paused the distribution of the monoclonal antibody drugs that have been effectively used against earlier strains of the virus. The following therapeutics are less effective against the Omicron variant:
- Bamlanivimab and etesevimab together
- Etesevimab alone
- REGEN-COV
For this reason, effective December 30, 2021, we have paused the Blue Cross® Blue Shield® of Arizona (BCBSAZ) monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment program. We are no currently accepting orders from network providers for treatment.
The sotrovimab therapeutic is active against Omicron, but is still very limited in supply. We are hopeful that we can resume our program once sotrovimab becomes more widely available.
COVID-19 treatment guidelines
For more information about COVID-19 treatment guidelines while Omicron is the dominant variant, see the NIH COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines. You can also access the FDA information on the emergency use of drugs and non-vaccine biological products.
See details:
BCBSAZ pauses monoclonal antibody program (12/30/21)
Provider FAQs (12/30/21)
Supporting our community
Some examples of how we’ve partnered with state and local leaders include:
• Helping to facilitate testing
• Offering funding for needed supplies
• Contributing to food banks and other community resources to support essential services
• Assisting state leadership in creating multiple, highly efficient COVID-19 vaccination clinic sites
Mitigating exposure through virtual services
Virtual services have become an important part of a coordinated response to the coronavirus pandemic. BCBSAZ has expanded this coverage and in many cases is waiving member cost share.
See updates:
Telehealth – BCBSAZ Quick Reference Guide (12/30/21)
