For Consumers

Kreidler extends emergency order again waiving deductibles and copays for coronavirus testing

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July 2, 2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler extended his emergency order to Washington state health insurers for an additional 30 days requiring them to waive copays and deductibles for any consumer requiring testing for coronavirus (COVID-19).

Insurers also must continue: 

  • Allowing a one-time early refill for prescription drugs.
  • Suspending any prior authorization requirement for treatment or testing of COVID-19.

In addition, if an insurer does not have enough medical providers in its network to provide testing or treatment for COVID-19, it must allow enrollees to be treated by another provider within a reasonable distance at no additional cost.   

The extension is effective immediately and applies to all state-regulated health insurance plans and short-term limited duration medical plans until Aug. 2, 2020. 

“Consumers are rightly concerned about prevention, testing and possible treatment,” Kreidler said. “My emergency order provides guidance to health insurers and should help reassure the public that we will take all necessary steps to protect them.” 

Kreidler is using powers granted to him following the statewide emergency that Gov. Jay Inslee declared to protect Washington residents against the spread of the coronavirus. 

When the governor issues an emergency proclamation, the commissioner can issue an emergency order related to health care coverage to ensure access to care.  The order lasts 60 days and can be extended by the commissioner for an additional 30 days, as long as the governor’s emergency proclamation remains in effect.

Kreidler urged state residents without health insurance to contact Washington’s exchange,  Washington Healthplanfinder to see if they qualify for free health coverage or a special enrollment for individual health insurance.