TOPEKA, Kan. – Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt issued a consumer alert today regarding billing for COVID-19 testing. The Department’s Consumer Assistance Division recently became aware of situations in which federal law was not being followed related to COVID-19 testing.

“Providers and health insurers have a responsibility to ensure claims are processed correctly,” Schmidt said. “Kansans should pay special attention to any charges related to COVID-19 testing to ensure they are not improper. If you have been tested for COVID-19 and
have questions about charges, please contact the [insurance department] for assistance.”

Federal law requires COVID-19 testing without cost sharing (including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance) requirements or prior authorization or other medical management requirements, meaning most consumers should not be billed a separate provider or facility fee for receiving a COVID-19 diagnostic test.

Consumers are encouraged to closely review explanation of benefit statements from their insurer to make certain they do not have a cost sharing responsibility for a diagnostic COVID-19 test.

The Kansas Insurance Department has a Consumer Assistance Hotline, 785-296-7829 or 800-432-2484 to assist consumers who believe they were subject to an improper charge.

Consumers can also contact the department via email at kid.webcomplaints@ks.gov or through insurance.kansas.gov/complaint.

Information thanks to the Kansas Insurance Department.