The federal government is poised to stop paying for COVID-19 vaccines, tests and treatments in the coming months, shifting the costs onto the public. Experts say most Americans are not aware that this will happen and will be in for a major case of sticker shock. They warn without additional...
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Why you may soon have to pay for that COVID-19 test
The federal government is poised to stop paying for COVID-19 vaccines, tests and treatments in the coming months, shifting the costs onto the public.
Experts say most Americans are not aware that this will happen and will be in for a major case of sticker shock. They warn without additional protections or funding, the transition to commercialized treatments and preventive services will lead to health barriers.
Instead of free access to tests and treatments like Paxlovid, insurance companies and manufacturers will set the price.
The days of free, easily accessible COVID-19 tests will also likely end. Private insurance may not cover over-the-counter tests anymore, and patients may need a prescription first for a PCR test.
Health experts and advocates have expressed concern that without the federal government’s involvement, drug companies may start charging exorbitant prices.
Pfizer said it expects to quadruple the cost of its COVID-19 shot, and charge between $110 and $130 a dose once the government contract ends, possibly by early next year.
Eli Lilly’s monoclonal antibody treatment is already being sold directly to providers at a list price of $2,100 per dose, though it may not be effective against some of newer omicron subvariants.
With increased prices, consumers with private insurance could face tiered benefits to limit utilization or face medical necessity determinations.
For the uninsured, the barriers could be huge. And if there’s a winter surge of infections, there could be significant consequences.
“If we do get another surge, it could be a real problem,” said Corlette. “Testing services will probably not be as widespread. People will face cost sharing, uninsured folks … will have to pay out of pocket for tests and vaccines. So, it’s a potentially scary situation.”