Discussion and possible action on any and all matters regarding COVID-19 testing and vaccination coverage after termination of the National Public Health Emergency. (Mary Barajas, Human Resources Coordinator)

On January 15, 2022, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) required group health plans and health insurance issuers to provide coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic testing without cost-sharing, prior authorization, or other medical management. 

The federal government has announced its plan to end the COVID-19 National Emergency and Public Health Emergency on May 11, 2023. 

Effective May 12, 2023, group health plans will no longer be required to cover COVID-19 diagnostic testing (including over-the-counter tests) at no cost to the member.  Diagnostic tests for COVID-19 may be paid the same as any other diagnostic test. This means that members may be responsible for payment of all or part of the cost of COVID-19 tests, including over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests, purchased on and after May 12, 2023.

Currently, our Benefit Plan covers COVID-19 testing and vaccine administration at 100%, and OTC tests are limited to 8 tests for each covered member.  With the termination of the Public Health Emergency, the City of San Luis Employee Benefit Trust may decide to:

1. Continue covering testing and vaccine administration at 100%.
2. Impose cost-sharing (copay, deductible, or coinsurance) to COVID-19 Diagnostic testing, but cover COVID-19 vaccines at 100%. 
   • Should this option be selected, a 30-day notice will be provided to employees to notify them this change will take effective on June 12, 2023.