Employers Look to End of Covid Emergency for Benefit Adjustments

Employer group health plans need to look at their benefits before the Covid-19 public health emergency ends May 11 and prepare for changes affecting coverage of over-the-counter tests, telehealth, and health savings accounts, health plan consultants say.

One of the biggest changes is that they won’t be required to pay for Covid tests without requiring cost-sharing by beneficiaries. However, most will probably continue to cover them with more restrictions.

Health plans may continue covering Covid tests given in doctors’ offices as part of regular medical coverage, such as for strep throat or flu tests, Kathryn Bakich, national health compliance practice ...