July 2021 Volume 19, Number 7 | |||||
New COVID-19 Obligations Added to Group Health PlansEven as the country is regaining a sense of normalcy following the pandemic, the federal government has strengthened group health plans obligations for COVID-19 coverage.
The Departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Treasury released guidance for health plans this year in the form of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). The FAQ focuses on the implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”), the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), and other health coverage issues related to COVID-19. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released FAQs addressing who is to pay for COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing
Here are the highlights of the tri-agency FAQ: COVID-19 Preventive Services Coverage Requirement: Group health plans and health insurance issuers must cover, without cost-sharing requirements, any qualifying coronavirus preventive services for an individual who has received a recommendation. Requiring entity: CARES Act COVID-19 Vaccines
Requirement: The COVID-19 vaccination must be provided free to everyone living in the United States regardless of their immigration or health insurance status. Therefore, any provider giving vaccinations can be reimbursed for vaccine administration fees by the patient’s public or private insurance company. If someone is uninsured, the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund will cover the costs. The CDC stresses that no one can be denied a vaccine — even if they are unable to pay a vaccine administration fee. However, providers can bill for additional health care services. Requiring entity: CDC |
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Unwelcome Surprises in Some 401(k) Plans SECURE Act 401(k) Plan Changes Impact Employer Responsibilities How to Stay in Compliance with the Latest Immigration Laws New COVID-19 Obligations Added to Group Health Plans Unemployment Tax Rate Increases Expected
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