Healthcare FAQ

Table of Contents

1. Healthcare
   1. Will I need to pay for a Coronavirus test?
   2. If I get sick with Coronavirus, will my insurance pay for it?
   3. Are Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) funds eligible to be used on supplies regarding Coronavirus symptoms?
   4. I am on Medicare or Medicaid, are treatments for Coronavirus covered under Medicare?
   5. What changes have been made for telemedicine?

Healthcare

Most of the Department of Health & Welfare for each state has launched a toll free information line that includes a mix of information: instructions for those experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19, details on the stay at home order, questions regarding "essential" or "non-essential" businesses, information on mental health and suicide prevention services, etc. You can find your state department of health here.

Will I need to pay for a Coronavirus test?

• No. Legislation was passed to allow for free testing and doctor’s visit for COVID-19. It is still recommended to try and stay within your network if you seek to receive testing.  Many health providers have asked that patients who suspect COVID-19 symptoms first call in advance of the visit to prevent overwhelmed clinics and hospitals. 
• You may wish to refer to your regional district for contact information, clinic location, etc. Lookup that information using this Wikipedia Page.

If I get sick with Coronavirus, will my insurance pay for it?

• While you should check your individual policy, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has created a code for coronavirus treatment, and private insurances are now able to bill for these related services. 
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has created a Current Emergencies page for all resources by category.

Are Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) funds eligible to be used on supplies regarding Coronavirus symptoms?

• Yes. You can use your HSA  and FSA  accounts for over-the-counter drugs to deal with COVID-19.  

I am on Medicare or Medicaid, are treatments for Coronavirus covered under Medicare?

• Yes.

What changes have been made for telemedicine?

• Additional funds have been provided for telemedicine, including technology upgrades and funds for rural broadband improvement. Deductibles have also been waived for people receiving care through telemedicine.

• For providers, there is still the requirement that telemedicine patients visits via telemedicine channels be both audio and visual, and that it be synchronous (live) in order to qualify for reimbursement.

• The Trump Administration has allowed out of state, licensed physicians to be able to conduct visits with patients and be paid the same as if they were in-state licensed physicians.
• The third coronavirus relief bill provides record funding and liability protections for rural healthcare providers.
• Funds will also be available for small private hospitals and clinics.