September 27, 2021

Survey Says Most Private Insurance Plans Won’t Waive COVID-19 Cost-sharing

At the urging of the federal government, insurance companies waived cost-sharing for COVID-19 patients in 2020. However as the pandemic continues, a majority of companies have opted to discontinue this practice, meaning that COVID-19 patients with ‘long-haul’ cases are responsible for their full deductibles and copays.

The data come from a Kaiser Family Foundation survey conducted in August. Of the plans surveyed, 72% said they would no longer cover out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 care. The survey also found that this percentage is likely to increase in the future, leaving more patients responsible for the cost of their care.

“These patients can expect to see steep hospital bills similar to others with chronic diseases such as cancer,” said Robert Roach, Jr., President of the Alliance. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid high out of pocket medical bills.”