Tips for managing chronic illnesses during COVID-19
Have a chronic disease? Here’s how you can continue to manage your illness and take care of yourself.
If you have a chronic health condition, staying healthy during COVID-19 might feel challenging.
Nurse case managers at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) are here to help. Here are some of their tips for protecting yourself and staying safe.
Make a plan for getting groceries and essential items.
People with chronic illnesses are at higher risk for complications from COVID-19. Try to avoid stores except when necessary to limit your risk of getting sick.
Consider getting groceries delivered, if you can, or asking a friend for help.
If you have to go to the store, try to go early in the morning or late in the evening. During these times, stores are less crowded. While you’re there, stock up on several weeks of food.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after putting groceries away.
To avoid extra trips to the pharmacy, ask your doctor to order a 90-day prescription of your regular medications. Blue Cross NC has waived early medication refills, so members can have the medicines they need on hand.*
Take advantage of virtual care.
Telemedicine is one of the best ways to protect yourself against exposure. Instead of walking into a clinic, call your doctor’s office and ask about virtual care. Many doctors offer telephone and video call options.
Just like with a face-to-face visit, you can follow up online with any questions for your doctor.
If you need to see a doctor in-person for testing, ask your doctor if you can safely push the appointment to a later date.
Practice good hygiene.
Wear gloves when you are pushing a grocery cart, pumping gas, or touching surfaces outside your home.
Wash your hands frequently throughout the day. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. This is especially important before eating.
Be diligent about not touching your face.
Protect yourself with a face mask or any facial covering when you are in public. Throw the mask away or put it in the washing machine when you return home.
If you smoke, there has never been a better time to quit than now.
The CDC is reporting that smoking and vaping make you more susceptible to coronavirus. You may also be more likely to have serious symptoms of the disease.
The good news is that QuitlineNC has your back. They offer free, 24/7 support to quit for most Blue Cross NC members. If you’re not sure if your plan covers QuitlineNC, call the number on the back of your insurance card.
Call 1-844-8NCQuit (1-844-862-7848) any time, or register online at www.quitlinenc.com. Get telephone, online and/or text help to quit. Your lungs start healing very quickly after you quit smoking.
Take care of your overall mental and physical health.
In addition to taking all your medications and staying in contact with your doctor, remember to take care of your overall well-being.
You can do that by:
- Staying hydrated
- Getting a good night’s sleep
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting outside for a walk while staying at least six feet away from others
- Staying connected to your support system and building resilience
- Calling a friend or family member every day
- Seeking out mental health support as needed
Ongoing care is more important than ever. For members with access to Health Line Blue, nurses are here to answer your calls free of charge 24/7. Health Line Blue nurses can answer medical questions on almost any health issue. They’ll help you decide the best place to get care based on your symptoms.
For up-to-date COVID-19 information, visit the CDC’s COVID-19 webpage.
*All announced COVID-19 measures apply to Blue Cross NCs fully insured, Medicare Advantage and Federal Employee Program members. Drug coverage and pharmacy changes apply to Blue Cross NCs Medicare Part D members. Self-funded employer groups have the option to include the waiver of costs and prior approval for testing in their employees plans.
Telehealth services are subject to the terms and conditions of the member’s health plan, including benefits, limitations and exclusions. Telehealth services are not a substitute for emergency care. Decisions regarding your care should be made with the advice of your doctor.
QuitlineNC is an independent company that is solely responsible for the services it is providing. QuitlineNC does not offer Blue Cross NC products or services.
Blue Cross NC offers the Nurse Support Program for your convenience is not liable in any way for the goods or services received; results are not guaranteed. Decisions regarding your care should be made with the advice of your doctor.
