Tip #447: What Does Covid-19 Testing Cost?

First things first.

When should you seek testing for Covid-19? (No, I’m not going to start practicing medicine!)

You might visit the websites for Ascension, Advocate Aurora, Froedtert or ProHealth Care. They all have easy to navigate self-assessment symptom checkers. Answer a few questions about critical risk factors and you’ll get guidance.

Should you need medical services related to Covid-19 diagnostic testing, the Families First Coronavirus Act ensures zero patient cost. If however you are diagnosed with Covid-19 and need additional care, you may be responsible for the usual out of pocket costs; e.g., deductibles, coinsurance, etc.

Interestingly, the CARES Act outlines rules for transparency; i.e., providers must publicly list the cash prices of Covid-19 testing on their websites. (Check out what Medicare is paying here.)

Go back to the above health system links again. Can you find those prices? I couldn’t.

What the heck. They’ve been busy. I’m sure they’ll get to it soon. COUGH.

Another nugget; The CARES Act did not address surprise billing.

Just an oversight, I’m sure. COUGH. COUGH. (Uh-oh!)

P.S. Since it will be a while longer before we can get together, let’s stay connected virtually. Let me know a day/time and I’ll send you a Zoom invite.

Happy Easter and Passover