Bumps in COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and a new round of free COVID home tests

September 29, 2023

Illustration by Dall-E

This fall is the first time that employer-sponsored health insurance will pay for COVID-19 vaccinations; until now, these vaccinations were paid for by the federal government. The administration of this change has not gone smoothly in many areas. The Washington Post, reports that some individuals with commercial insurance have faced bills of up to $200 for a COVID vaccine, even though the vaccine should have no cost sharing as it is recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force. National Public Radio also reports difficulty with vaccine access.

Implications for employers:

-        These ‘bumps’ will likely work out in the coming weeks, but each barrier to vaccination will mean fewer people will have effective immunity later this fall when the danger may be higher.

-        Employer plans should provide coverage for the COVID-19 vaccination through both their medical plan (so that members can get the shots at their doctors’ offices) and through their pharmacy plan (so that members can get the shots at their local pharmacy).

-        Employers can check with their pharmacy benefit manager and their medical carrier to be sure that this coverage is in place and that customer service representatives are properly educated about vaccine coverage.

The federal government will distribute another round of COVID-19 home tests

The federal government will distribute another round of four COVID-19 home tests per household, which can be ordered from the US Postal Service. They will ship starting next week. Note that many COVID-19 home tests have been approved for use after initial expiration dates. If you have unused tests at home that are beyond their printed expiration date, check this site to see if they are not yet expired before discarding them. Many libraries and community centers still have a supply of free home tests that they distribute free.

Implications for employers:

-        Most employers are no longer providing free home tests, although some cover these at plan cost-sharing rates.

-        Employers should continue to encourage those who feel sick not to come to the workplace, and to test for COVID if they have relevant symptoms.

-        These tests are especially important for those who are immunocompromised or over 50 and could benefit most from Paxlovid. Tests are also important for those who live with or will be visiting people at higher risk.

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