Employee Benefits Market Check Survey: End of the Federal Emergencies

The end of the COVID-19 federal emergencies will likely impact group health insurance across the United States. During the pandemic, certain policies were implemented to support employers and employees, such as temporarily suspending certain deadlines and coverage for telehealth services and COVID-related testing and treatment. However, as these policies expire, employers may need to reassess their health insurance plans and coverage options.

We conducted a poll during a webcast on April 20 to gain insight into employers’ plans moving forward. The results are in the charts below.

When does your health plan intend to stop providing coverage for COVID-19 testing?

Results based on 385 total respondents

If you offer a qualified HDHP, does that plan currently cover COVID-19 testing and treatment below the deductible, pursuant to the interim relief?

Results based on 320 total respondents

Key Findings

As the results illustrate, many employers are unsure how they will approach coverage for COVID tests. This may result from confusion over when the emergencies would end, as the dates have changed a few times. Further, the IRS has yet to definitively rule on the interim relief granted to high deductible plans. Regardless, employers should determine their future path now. Items to consider are: will we cover tests from now on, and if so, who will pay? Will we limit coverage to in-network only, how will we communicate, and when will these requirements take effect?

Overall, the end of the federal emergencies will require employers to navigate new challenges and adapt to the changing environment. If employers make any changes related to COVID diagnostic testing, they should notify participants as soon as possible. If any changes impact the Summary of Benefits and Coverage, then employers must disclose those changes.

Should you have any questions regarding any of this information or want to discuss your well-being strategy, please contact your local Assurex Global adviser.