The new coronavirus has arrived face masks and hand sanitizers are flying off the shelves, and the number of confirmed cases in the U.S. continues to rise. The questions have arisen over the potential costs people may face if they become severely ill and need treatment from the hospital. While many large insurers have agreed to waive co-payments and deductibles for Coronavirus tests. People with private insurance who face deductibles could still be on the hook for large treatment costs.
As in new examines the potential cost of Coronavirus treatment to employer health plans and their enrollees. By looking at typical spending for hospital admissions for pneumonia. It finds that for coronavirus patients with complications or comorbidities. The treatment costs could top ($20,000). Average out of pocket costs could exceed ($1,300) for all admitted patients. Including those without complications or comorbidities.
Surprise medical bills for coronavirus treatment. Finds that nearly 1 in 5 patients who have in-network admissions. For pneumonia with major complications or comorbidities face out of network charges.
The Cost For Treatment
Medical costs are already a common concern in the U.S. Particularly for people without insurance those with high deductibles and those in worse health. In the context of the Coronavirus, it is of even greater concern. The pandemic could add more costs to the healthcare system. Employers, and insurers as well, though that will depend on how many people infected and how many become seriously ill. For individuals with private insurance who do become seriously ill. The cost of insurance is different.
#CoronaVirus current numbers (as of Tuesday Match 17th):
Confirmed Cases: 181,546
Deaths: 7,126
Recovered: 78,088 #COVID19 #CoronavirusOutbreak pic.twitter.com/lkA90dnp2o— #CoronaVirus Updates (@CoronaNumbers) March 17, 2020
Even if testing is made widely available without cost-sharing. People with private coverage who contract with the Coronavirus risk high out of pocket costs. If they need hospitalization. Former Vice President “Joe Biden’s” proposed response to Coronavirus would cover treatment costs. Through an emergency medical plan. Now, the U.S. is currently considering legislation to respond to Coronavirus, but there is no sign that it will address treatment costs.
