On Medicare? What You’ll Pay for Now That the PHE Has Ended

Jul 17, 2023

On Medicare? What You’ll Pay for Now That the PHE Has Ended

The Biden administration officially ended the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency on May 11, 2023. Certain policies that were implemented in early 2020 during the public health emergency will now expire. As a result, seniors are among those who may see some of the health care costs related to COVID-19 change. Other health care services may or may not be affected, depending on what type of coverage you have.

Here are some of the highlights:

If You Are Enrolled in Original Medicare

  • With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, you will likely have to pay for:
    • At-home and over-the-counter COVID tests
    • Care in a skilled nursing facility if you have not first spent at least three days in a row admitted to a hospital (Note that being “under observation” at a hospital is not the same as being “admitted.”)
  • You generally willnot have to pay for:
    • Laboratory COVID tests ordered by a health care provider, if you have Medicare Part B (Note that you may have to pay for part of the cost for your visit to the health care provider’s office)
    • COVID vaccines and boosters from a health care provider who takes Medicare
    • COVID oral antiviral treatments such as Paxlovid
  • Other considerations
    • In most cases, you will continue to have access to telehealth services from home through the end of 2024
    • With the end of the public health emergency, Medicare beneficiaries with Part D coverage may no longer receive three-month supplies of prescription medications

If You Are a Medicare Advantage Member

  • Now that the public health emergency has ended, you may have to pay at least part of the cost for:
    • At-home and over-the-counter COVID tests
    • Laboratory COVID tests ordered by a health care provider, including part of the cost of your visit to the health care provider’s office
    • Visits to out-of-network physicians
  • You willnot have to pay for:
    • COVID vaccines provided by an in-network physician
  • Other considerations
    • Check with your individual plan regarding telehealth service access

For more information, visit the “What Does the End of the PHE Mean for You?” resource on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

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Engaging a law firm for estate planning provides peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in capable hands. It allows you to focus on enjoying your life without the constant worry of what may happen to your assets and loved ones in the future.

Hidden First Toggle
Legal Expertise:

Estate planning involves various legal instruments, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. We specialize in estate planning, ensuring that your documents comply with the ever-changing state and federal laws. We can help you navigate intricate legal requirements, minimizing the risk of costly errors and potential disputes.

Customization:

Every person's financial situation and family dynamics are unique. We will take the time to understand your goals and circumstances, allowing for the creation an estate plan that suits your individual situation.

Asset Protection:

We can assist you in structuring your estate plan to protect your assets from potential creditors, lawsuits, and taxation. Our experience can also help you employ strategies to minimize tax liabilities.

Avoiding Probate Delays:

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's assets are distributed. It can be time-consuming and costly. We can help you explore options to minimize or avoid the probate process, allowing your beneficiaries to receive their inheritances more quickly and efficiently.

Conflict Resolution:

When estate plans are unclear or disputed, it can lead to conflicts and legal battles. We can help you draft clear and legally sound documents that minimize the chances of disputes among heirs and beneficiaries. In the event that a dispute arises, we can also represent your interests and work toward an amicable resolution.

Updates and Maintenance:

Estate plans need to be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect changes in your financial situation, family dynamics, and applicable laws. We can provide ongoing support and guidance, ensuring that your estate plan remains current and effective.

Peace of Mind:

Engaging a law firm for estate planning provides peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in capable hands. It allows you to focus on enjoying your life without the constant worry of what may happen to your assets and loved ones in the future.

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