1.26.22
By Molly Wood, SPHR, Senior HR Consultant
In an effort to increase access to free COVID testing, insurance companies are now required to cover the cost of over-the-counter, at-home COVID tests. 
Insurance carriers are either accepting the cost up-front, or providing reimbursement. Insurance companies must cover up to eight free over-the-counter tests per covered individual per month.
Most carriers are providing the reimbursement option by completing a claim form. Many medical insurance providers will cover the cost if the insured goes directly to a preferred pharmacy, but that is dependent upon the pharmacy having tests in stock.
While this new policy will hopefully slow the spread of COVID by making people more likely to test regularly, if an employer is requiring employees to be tested, they are still obligated to cover time and dime of COVID testing and cannot make employees use their “personal stash” of tests.
CLICK HERE to see a list of carriers and their protocols. Courtesy of SSA Insurance Services.
SDEA members get unlimited phone consultation, so if you want to call and despair that this COVID nonsense will never be over, we are here for you. 858.505.0024