IRS Allows HDHPs To Cover Coronavirus Costs
Key Points
- HDHPs can pay for COVID-19 testing and treatment without imposing a deductible.
- As a growing trend, states are directing or encouraging health insurance issuers to cover this testing without any costsharing.
- Employers with HDHPs should consult with their plan’s issuer or benefits administrator regarding their plan’s coverage for COVID-19 testing and treatment.
Department of Labor Issues Guidance on COVID-19 and the FMLA
The U.S. Department of Labor has issued Q&As on the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and COVID-19 (the disease caused by the new coronavirus) and other health emergencies. The Q&As explain that under the FMLA, covered employers must provide eligible employees with job-protected, unpaid leave for specified family and medical reasons, which may include the flu where complications arise. Employees on FMLA leave are entitled to the continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms as before they took leave.
Implementation of Mitigation Strategies for Communities with Local COVID-19 Transmission
This is a 10-page guide with easy-to follow tables and graphics from the Centers for Disease Control, covering Background, Goals, and Guiding Principles, with tables and appendices to help fully clarify factors to consider for implementation of mitigation strategies.
Protect yourself and your community from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses like coronavirus disease 2019. Everyone has a role to play in getting ready and staying healthy.
COVID-19 Officially a Pandemic
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic, increasing the severity from an “outbreak.”
How Far Has COVID-19 Spread?
This announcement comes as more than 120,000 cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide, with over 4,000 deaths.
In the United States alone, there have been over 1,000 confirmed cases and at least 30 deaths attributed to COVID-19.
What’s Being Done to Stop It?
At least 114 countries have been affected so far, with some taking drastic steps to contain the disease. Italy is experiencing a nationwide lockdown; China is quarantining entire regions; and Canada is planning to spend billions to fight it.
Experts cannot predict how bad the situation will become, but it’s already shutting down major events and sending the stock markets plummeting. Many schools and universities are extending breaks or holding remote classes only; major festivals like Coachella and SXSW are being canceled; and presidential nominees are canceling events and rallies.
Until the disease gets under control, these disruptions are likely to continue.
What’s Can Employers Do?
Guidance for employers will vary depending on the situation. Many retailers and employers relying on face-to-face interactions will likely be disrupted by both limited customers and sick employees.
Many organizations are considering telecommuting options, such as having employees work from home for extended periods. Employers that don’t have such options are thoroughly communicating best practices for avoiding the disease, like proper handwashing and staying home if sick.
More than 120,000 cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide, with over 4,000 deaths. The disease is affecting at least 114 countries.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus.
Visit cdc.gov for more information about COVID-19 and ways to prevent its spread. Speak with Evolution of Benefits for other resources to help contain the pandemic.
Client and Employee Resources
The more your employees understand your benefit plans the more they become educated, empowered consumers. The programs you provide will also gain an enhanced value.
As your strategic partners in employee benefits, we can provide multiple avenues of ongoing support, including:
- Employee Meetings (English and Spanish)
- Webcasts
- Payroll Stuffers
- Poster Campaigns
- Newsletters
Carrier Directories
E-Verify is a web-based system that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. Click the image below to begin.
