On March 9, 2020, the Department of Insurance published Bulletin No. 115, which relates to health insurance coverage for the coronavirus (COVID-19). According to the bulletin, small and individual plans must cover essential health benefits (EHBs), which include COVID-19-related laboratory tests.
For all fully insured plans (regardless of size), carriers cannot exclude a service for coverage solely because the service is provided through telemedicine services (which include a variety of platforms, including telephones, remote patient monitoring devices, and other electronic means such as web cameras and mobile video chat). In addition, carriers cannot use pre-authorization requirements as a barrier to access necessary treatment for COVID-19, and should expedite utilization review and appeal process for COVID-19 when medically appropriate.
On prescription drugs, an expedited formulary exception may be requested if the insured is suffering from a health condition that may seriously jeopardize the insured’s health, life or ability to regain maximum function, or if the insured is undergoing a current course of treatment using a non-formulary prescription drug. Additionally, PBMs are prohibited from requiring prior authorization for coverage of a 72-hour supply of medication that is for a non-controlled substance in an emergency. The Department expects insurers to provide for early refills or replacements of lost or damaged medications (even if the potential for quarantine is high). Lastly, consumers must be able to access their necessary prescriptions from a local retail pharmacy, even if their prescription supply is normally provided by mail order, without concern of a penalty.
Lastly, the bulletin states that carriers must cover diagnostic testing and waive patient cost sharing (deductibles, copayments and coinsurance), including for in-person and telemedicine visits.
The new bulletin applies directly to carriers, but are important reminders on coverage of COVID-19-relates services and items.
Bulletin No. 115 »