Michigan Insurers Waiving Coronavirus Testing, Treatment Costs

MICHIGAN — Nearly all of Michigan's health insurers have agreed to waive all out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing and treatments through the end of 2020, the state announced Friday.

The agreement, reached through a partnership between the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services and the state, includes copays, deductibles and coinsurance. These agreements cover more than 92 percent of the commercial health insurance market in Michigan, the state said.

“Ensuring access to appropriate testing and medical treatment without financial concern is an important part of fighting this virus,” Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement. “We’re continuing to work around the clock to slow the spread of this virus and keep people healthy, and I am thankful that Michigan’s health insurers have continued to step up to do their part.”

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Through at least the end of 2020, consumers with these individual and group health plans will not be charged cost-sharing for medically appropriate COVID-19-related medical treatment, such as primary care visits, diagnostic testing, emergency room visits, ambulance services and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved medications and vaccines when they become available.

“Once again, our Governor has shown strong leadership to protect the health of the residents of this state,” DIFS Director Anita Fox said. “Eliminating financial barriers to testing and treatment will ensure that Michiganders can focus on getting appropriate care, instead of worrying about how they are going to pay COVID-19-related medical bills.”

The insurers who have agreed to waive cost-sharing are listed below:

• Aetna Better Health of Michigan
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network
• HAP, Alliance Health
• Humana
• McLaren Health Plan
• Meridian Health Plan
• Molina Healthcare Michigan
• Paramount Care of Michigan
• Physicians Health Plan (PHP)
• Priority Health, Priority Health Insurance Co.
• Total Health Care

Those seeking COVID-19 testing or treatment should contact their insurance company to find out about their coverage. Insured consumers who pay up front or receive a bill for COVID-19 testing or treatment should contact their insurance company for assistance.

As of Thursday morning, more than 114,000 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in Michigan. Over 6,600 people in Michigan have died from the virus.

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