Coronavirus

4:13 PM, Feb 27, 2020

Actions

Sen. Gary Peters introduces free coronavirus testing legislation

Posted at 4:46 PM, Mar 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-13 16:46:44-04

U.S. Senator Gary Peters introduced legislation that would offer free COVID-19 testing.

RELATED: Coronavirus outbreak in Michigan: Here are the latest updates

The legislation would waive cost-sharing for COVID-19 diagnostic testing and related health care services for Americans in private health plans, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, VA along with federal civilians and American Indians.

Peters pressed the Trump administration to expand testing capabilities.

“As we work to address the coronavirus pandemic, my top priority is protecting the health of Michiganders. We must take aggressive action, including by expanding access to free Coronavirus testing,” said Senator Peters. “Costs should never be a barrier to the testing that will help us combat this virus. The Senate should act swiftly and pass our Free COVID-19 Testing Act.”

The legislation would also prohibit private insurers from imposing limits like prior authorization for testing.

For individuals who are uninsured, the bill would cover the cost of lab fees; states would be able to cover testing and other health care related services through their Medicid programs.