BestHealthcareRates.com Announces H1N1 Vaccine Initiative by Anthem Blue Cross of California

Arroyo Grande, CA December 16, 2009 - BestHealthcareRates.com today announced an initiative by Anthem Blue Cross of California to stem the spread of H1N1 Swine Flu. Each year influenza puts a huge strain on the health care system, and causes many to become ill and even others to die. This year's flu season will be especially complicated thanks to the emergence of the new strain of flu called H1N1 or Swine Flu. In order to ensure that as many people as possible get the new H1N1 vaccination, Anthem Blue Cross medical plans will pay for the shot with no co-pay or deductible needed to be paid for all of its medical plan members. The company is also encouraging all those who are self-insured employers, to pay for their employees' vaccinations. 

"At Anthem Blue Cross, our priority is to ensure that our actions and communications support public health," said Kurt Tamaru, Anthem Blue Cross medical director. "Our goal is to keep our plan members as healthy as possible. We are committed to working with the CDC and HHS on an information campaign to ensure that members and the public are vaccinated to prevent H1N1, and if they develop H1N1 flu, they are treated effectively and appropriately." 

Because much of the vaccinations will be given out through non-typical providers such as retail clinics, pharmacies, and public health clinics, Anthem Blue Cross will work with these providers to increase the availability of the shots. Additionally, the antiviral medications Tamiflu and Relenza will move to an affordable tier level in their medical insurance plans. 

"Whether you get the H1N1 vaccine or not, it's only wise to follow regular common sense practices to avoid getting sick this flu season," said Tom Carolan of BestHealthcareRates.com. "Wash your hands often and cover your month if you cough or sneeze. You should also stay at home if you are feeling sick and are showing any signs of the flu." 

The CDC eventually wants all in the US to get the H1N1 vaccine but urges a certain population get vaccinated right away as soon as the vaccine is available in their area. These people include pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months old, children and young adults from the ages of 6 months to 24 years old, and those 25 to 64 years old if they have chronic medical conditions as that could increase the risk of contracting the H1N1 Swine Flu. 

For additional information, Contact: Tom Carolan, at 877-812-5111 or online at http://www.besthealthcarerates.com.

BestHealthcareRates.com has been in the business of providing individuals and families with affordable major medical insurance since 2001. By working with thousands of families to find affordable medical insurance plans, BestHealthcareRates.com has long understood the need for change in the health care system to improve the quality and cost of medical insurance coverage for everyone.