Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates for Providers

The federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19 expired at the end of the day on May 11, 2023, and many states have previously lifted their state of emergency, as well. As a result, CarePartners of Connecticut is returning to many pre-pandemic operations and policies. Please refer to the information below for details on our COVID-19 related policies and practices, effective May 12, 2023.

COVID-19 vaccinations
CarePartners of Connecticut complies with federal and state guidelines for vaccines, including boosters. In-network COVID-19 vaccines will remain covered at no cost to our members. We are following federal and state guidance related to member cost shares for out-of-network COVID-19 vaccines.

Provider reimbursement for COVID-19 vaccines
CarePartners of Connecticut reimburses providers for the administration of COVID vaccines and associated services. The reimbursement rate includes vaccine administration, public health reporting, and patient outreach, education, and counseling. Please refer to the COVID-19 Vaccine and Testing Codes list for billing information to ensure claims are processed appropriately.

COVID testing and treatment

• Over-the-counter/home testing kits: On May 12, 2023, following the end of the federal public health emergency, we will no longer have coverage through their Red, White and Blue Medicare card.
• Provider Ordered Testing and Treatment: COVID-19 tests, treatments and services ordered by a provider, including Paxlovid, will remain covered and we follow federal guidelines regarding approved treatments. We are following state guidance related to member cost shares for these services. Vaccines remain covered, member cost share may vary by product and state.
• CarePartners of Connecticut covers in-person polymerase chain reaction (PCR), antigen and antibody laboratory testing for COVID-19 consistent with federal and state guidance.
• Members are encouraged to use participating providers/laboratories for all COVID-19 testing.

Telemedicine/telehealth
Please refer to our Telehealth/Telemedicine Payment Policy for details on coverage and billing.

Referral and prior authorization guidelines
Prior authorization requirements apply where applicable and pre-COVID processes should be followed.