US insurance companies to cover costs of COVID-19 testing and treatment

  • AUTHOR: fiona
  • POSTED ON: March 11, 2020

US insurance companies have pledged to cover the cost of coronavirus tests. Hence, the insurance companies will now take over the financial turmoil caused by the unexpected Coronavirus. 

Source: The Financial Express

However, even if these companies welcome the bill, would it be enough? The truth of the matter is that the availability of the tests in itself is a question mark. While the capacity to conduct lab tests on patients is growing day by day, the public health officials claim that it’s still not enough to cater to millions of people, if needed.

In addition to this, these tests can only aid in diagnosing the virus. There will be additional costs to bear when the time for treatment comes.

Recently, the CEO of highly recognized insurance companies such as UnitedHealth, Anthem, and Humana met President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence to highlight the commitments they’ve made on an individual level. In this critical press meeting, leaders of Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and other industry giants were also present.

When the companies pledged to no surprise billing, Mike Pence said that “We want the American people to know that they are covered through private insurance, they are covered through Medicare, Medicaid, and there will be no surprise billing.”

To which, Trump added, “I think tremendous progress is being made. Insurers are willing to do things for the people and their customers… that normally I don’t think they’d be doing.”

Pence also clarified in the press briefing that Medicare is also covering the cost of remote care.

Source: KUOW

Despite the reassurance, most medical insurances suggest that people should clarify which medical services are covered by their insurance. This way, no out-of-pocket costs would be involved.

As of now, approximately 1000 cases of COVID-19 have been identified in the USA, and unfortunately, the number is expected to grow.

Updated March 11, 2020
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