23 Apr

Posted at 17:37h in COVID-19, Employee Benefits by . .

Know Your Benefits HeaderOn March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law.

In addition to providing direct financial assistance to Americans, the CARES Act repeals the Medicine Cabinet Tax provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), expanding the list of qualifying expenses that can be reimbursed with health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs).

CARES Act and Qualifying Medical Expenses

17 Apr

Posted at 21:32h in COVID-19, Employee Benefits by . .

The Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and the Treasury (Departments) have provided answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding health coverage issues related to COVID-19, including implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

These new laws require health plans and issuers to cover certain items and services related to the diagnosis of COVID-19 without imposing any cost- sharing requirements (including deductibles, copayments and coinsurance) or prior authorization or other medical management requirements. According to the Departments’ FAQs, health plans and issuers must provide notice of the changes to plan participants as soon as reasonably practicable.