On October 28, 2020, the IRS, DOL and HHS released interim final regulations regarding various COVID-19 testing and treatment updates. The guidance includes vaccine coverage requirements applicable to group health plans. Price transparency for COVID-19 diagnostic tests is also addressed.

As background, the CARES Act requires that non-grandfathered group health plans provide coverage without cost sharing for qualifying COVID-19 preventive services. Such services include immunizations that are specifically recommended by the CDC.

To ensure rapid access to a COVID-19 vaccine, once available, the guidance incorporates the CARES Act implementation requirements. Specifically, group health plans must provide coverage for COVID-19 immunizations within 15 business days of the CDC’s recommendation for individual usage. (It is not necessary that the vaccine be recommended for routine usage, as is typically required for coverage of preventive services).

The coverage must be provided without cost sharing regardless of whether the immunization is received in-network or out-of-network. Integral items and services (such as a medical professional’s administration of the vaccine) must also be covered without cost sharing. However, cost sharing is permitted for unrelated items and services rendered during the same provider visit, if billed separately.

The CARES Act also required that providers publicize cash prices for COVID-19 diagnostic tests during the public health emergency. This new guidance defines the “cash price” as the charge that applies to an individual who pays cash (or cash equivalent) for a COVID-19 diagnostic test. Each provider must make this cash price available on its website; if the provider does not have a website, the cash price must be made available in writing within two business days upon request and through signage (if applicable). These requirements are intended to assist individuals seeking testing and provide plans with information to better negotiate provider rates.

In the event of noncompliance with this price transparency mandate, the guidance outlines potential CMS enforcement actions. These measures include written warnings, corrective action plans and the imposition of civil monetary penalties.

Group health plan sponsors should be aware of these regulations and prepare to provide coverage for COVID-19 vaccines without cost sharing within 15 days of a CDC recommendation. Grandfathered group health plans and excepted benefits are not technically covered by the rule, but are encouraged to provide similar coverage without cost sharing.

The guidance is effective immediately and extends through the duration of the public health emergency. Comments are requested regarding certain aspects of the rule and can be submitted through January 4, 2021.

Interim Final Rule »
Fact Sheet »
News Release »

Source: NFP BenefitsPartners