In the race to protect people from the coronavirus, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has fast tracked approval of several vaccines. Vaccinations are being given in phases, with healthcare personnel, residents and staff of long-term care facilities, frontline essential workers, and those over the age of 75 taking priority. The rest of the general population of the U.S. should have the opportunity to be vaccinated against COVID-19 within the next several months.
If your health plan is non-grandfathered (as most now are), coverage for COVID-19 vaccine(s) is automatic, as required by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). No further action is required; the vaccine will be added to the preventive care list for your health plan and covered in-network at 100% with no cost-sharing.
Grandfathered health plans, on the other hand, are not required to cover the vaccine. However, many grandfathered plans already cover preventive vaccinations (now including COVID-19) in-network at 100% with no cost-sharing. If your plan does not, your MedCost Account Manager will contact you to discuss recommendations and options. If you choose to add coverage for the vaccine, a Plan Amendment may be required.
MedCost stands ready and prepared to process COVID-19 vaccination claims for your plan participants. While your MedCost Account Manager will continue to work directly with you to address your specific circumstances and needs, another source for current information is our COVID-19 webpage. Please check it regularly, and contact your Account Manager if you have any questions or concerns.