News and Information

USDOL Issues Guidance on Group Health Plan Coverage of COVID-19 Tests

New guidance has been released jointly by the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Department of the Treasury to help answer frequently asked questions about the implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Part 43 of the Departments’ FAQS addresses Section 6001 of the FFCRA and Section 3201 of the CARES Act, including group health plan coverage of COVID-19 tests and related expenses. The guidance applies to tests for active infections as well as antibodies.

Plans must pay for:

• At-home tests for those with symptoms or potential exposure
• Multiple diagnostic tests as determined necessary by an attending health care provider
• Facility fees charged for a visit that results in an order for or administration of a diagnostic test
• Full costs of other services administered in the course of determining whether a coronavirus test is needed (e.g., a flu test, or chest X-ray)

Remember that group health care plans must also comply with the Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act.

For more information on the USDOL guidance, see the FAQS About Families First Coronavirus Response Act and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Implementation Part 43.