New Yorkers to pay for COVID tests at private clinics if not a medical necessity

It comes down to medical necessity, so insurance would pay for tests if you were exposed to COVID-19, have symptoms or before an operation.

News 12 Staff

Apr 15, 2021, 2:21 AM

Updated 1,274 days ago

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There are some major changes in regards to COVID-19 testing for New Yorkers.
Carbon Health is a private COVID-19 testing site, which means you may be paying out of pocket if it is not considered a medical necessity.
It does not apply to city-run sites like Health and Hospitals. It also does not apply to state-run testing sites.
A spokesperson from the state Department of Health explained that New Yorkers going to those facilities will not be charged for a test.
State officials do say that if you go to a testing site operated by local governments, private companies and medical practices, you may face out-of-pocket charges. This includes pharmacies and nonprofit organizations.
It comes down to medical necessity, so insurance would pay for tests if you were exposed to COVID-19, have symptoms or before an operation.
A spokesperson at Carbon Health said in part, "Due to changes in state and federal regulations regarding testing reimbursement, insurance companies are no longer covering visits if patients do not have COVID-19 symptoms or a known exposure. Insurance companies are now only covering visits for medical necessity."
An example of when you would have to pay at private clinics include routine testing, for travel or for a return to school or work.
The state Health Department advises New Yorkers to always check with the facility and their insurance company before their visit.