End of Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Brings Changes to Insurance Coverage for Michiganders

Media Contact:?Laura Hall, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]?
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:?May 11, 2023

(LANSING, MICH) The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is alerting consumers that there may be changes to their health insurance coverage for COVID-related testing and treatments now that the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) has ended.

"The protections enacted under the federal Public Health Emergency helped millions of Michiganders access lifesaving COVID-19 vaccines, treatment, and testing,? said DIFS Director Anita Fox. ?Going forward, it is important that Michiganders understand that their coverage for these important services may have changed. DIFS stands ready to assist consumers with any questions or concerns about their health insurance. Our live call center can be reached Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., by calling 877-999-6442.?

Federal law required that many health services related to COVID-19, including testing and vaccinations, had to be covered at no cost for the duration of the PHE. Many Michiganders may now have to pay out-of- pocket for some COVID-related care. For more specific information about different types of medical care that have been affected by the ending of the PHE, see below:

At-Home and Laboratory COVID Tests:

• Private Insurers: The federal mandate requiring health insurers to provide no-cost coverage for COVID-19 testing, including at-home tests, has ended. Most people with health insurance will continue to have coverage for laboratory COVID-19 tests, subject to the plan's cost sharing. At-home testing for COVID-19 is an eligible medical expense for flexible spending arrangements (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs). Michiganders should check with their plan for more details.
• Medicare: Medicare is no longer required to provide coverage for at-home COVID-19 testing. Medicare Part B participants can still obtain laboratory COVID-19 testing, with authorization by a medical provider, without out-of-pocket cost. Medicare Advantage participants may have additional flexibility regarding COVID-19 testing. Michiganders should check with their plan for more details.
• Medicaid: Under federal law, Medicaid and MIChild participants can obtain at-home and laboratory COVID-19 tests through September 30, 2024.

COVID-19 Treatments:

• Private insurers: Treatment for COVID-19 will continue to be covered but insurers are now able to apply cost sharing, such as deductibles and coinsurance, and require prior approval for these treatments. Michiganders should confirm coverage with their insurer or plan before seeking treatment.
• Medicare: Medicare beneficiaries may have to pay for a portion of their COVID-19 care as required by their plan.
• Medicaid: Medicaid and MIChild are required to cover all drugs for the treatment or prevention of COVID?19 with no cost sharing for enrollees through September 30, 2024.

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

COVID-19 vaccinations continue to be supplied with no out-of-pocket cost by the federal government.

DIFS can help consumers with health insurance questions and complaints. Contact DIFS Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 877-999-6442 or Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance.?For more information about the state?s Medicaid and MIChild programs, visit the MIBridges website.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS?or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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