NRECA Employee Benefits Weekly

Benefit Program Updates Relating to COVID-19

Posted on Posted in Group Benefits

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, NRECA and our vendor partners are extending certain benefit relief measures based on the recent extension of the public health emergency through April 15, 2022.

The latest extensions are noted below as well as on the Employee Benefits website’s COVID-19 Update page for benefits administrators. Similar information is provided on the Employee Benefits website’s participant landing page. Be sure to review information on extended benefit plan timelines for cooperatives and participants who may be affected by COVID-19. Two resources—an infographic and poster—aid in helping plan participants understand the safety and accessibility of COVID-19 vaccines. Be sure to download and use at your co-op.

  • Testing for COVID-19 is covered by the NRECA Medical Plan when the test is FDA-approved. There is currently no limit on the number of tests covered as long as they meet the criteria for FDA approval and referral by a medical provider. As of January 15, over the counter tests will be covered by the plan. The guidance currently allows for reimbursement of up to $12 per test with a total of eight tests per month, per participant. We are reviewing the guidance to determine the process for purchase and reimbursement of over the counter test kits and will share more information soon.
  • Administration costs associated with COVID-19 immunizations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA’s emergency use authorization are covered by the NRECA Medical Plan with no participant cost share. The vaccine itself is covered through the US government.
  • CVS Caremark is temporarily waiving early refill limits on 30-day prescriptions for maintenance medications at all in-network pharmacies (excluding controlled substances) through the end of the public health emergency. Up to a 90-day supply of maintenance medications are encouraged for refills. CVS is also temporarily providing free home delivery from CVS retail pharmacies for all prescriptions.
  • Teladoc physicians can order antibody testing through Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp locations, if a test is clinically appropriate; there will be no out-of-pocket cost for the consult or the antibody test through April 15, 2022.  
  • Be sure to use the online tool from UnitedHealthcare to locate a COVID-19 vaccination site. 

For specific questions, please reach out to your co-op’s field representative or the Member Contact Center at 866.673.2299. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm, Central time.

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