President Trump said Friday that hospitals treating uninsured coronavirus patients will be reimbursed by the federal government using funds from the $2.2 trillion economic relief package.
“This should alleviate any concern uninsured Americans may have about seeking the coronavirus treatment,” Trump said during the White House press briefing.
Blue Cross Blue Shield also announced this week that it would waive all copays for patients seeking treatment for the coronavirus. Insurers Cigna, Humana, and Anthem have enacted a similar policy for their customers as well. Testing for the virus is already free for anyone regardless of insurance.
“Copays, for them to do that … it’s a big statement, and we appreciate that,” Trump said.
Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said the administration would pay hospitals at Medicare rates for treating coronavirus patients, and that hospitals would not be allowed to send patients bills for charges beyond what the administration paid.
“We’re working to ensure that this funding is distributed in a way that is fast, fair, simple, and transparent,” Azar said.
