INSURANCE COMPANIES AND GROUP HEALTH PLANS TO COVER THE COSTS OF AT-HOME COVID-19 TESTS

As we continue to navigate through the unprecedented times of Covid-19, there have been many questions surrounding the costs of at-home Covid-19 tests, and whether private insurance companies should cover such costs.

In December, President Biden released a statement saying that we should expect to receive updated guidance from the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Treasury (the “Departments”) clarifying whether individuals who purchase at-home Covid-19 tests for individualized assessment and treatment would be able to seek reimbursement from their plan or insurer.

The Departments finally released their updated guidance on January 10, 2022. According to the updated guidance, beginning on January 15, 2022, insurance companies and group health plans will be required to cover up to eight (8) over the counter at-home (FDA approved) Covid-19 tests per covered individual per month. This means that covered individuals can purchase an at-home Covid-19 test at no cost or submit a claim with their private insurer to get reimbursed for the cost of the test.

However, it is important to note that this coverage is only for individualized diagnosis and treatment of Covid-19. It does not provide coverage for testing for employment purposes. Therefore, if an employer requires weekly testing in lieu of vaccination, such costs would not be covered under this guidance.

 


If you have any questions regarding coverage for at-home Covid-19 tests, please contact any member of Gardner Skelton, including Nicole Gardner, Erin Ball, and Jackie Kinni.