With the abundance of information being circulated about the coronavirus, we wanted to share more focused and pertinent information about the test, where to get the test and benefit coverage issues. This is outlined below for your consideration. We will continue to provide near real-time updates. This information should be useful to you and in how you may continue to communicate with your workforce on employee benefit issues.
About the Test – The test for the coronavirus requires a kit, specialized equipment and specially trained staff. While collecting a sample is easy, actually determining whether a person is infected with the coronavirus is much more complicated. The current method looks for the virus’s genetic material (RNA) in a patient’s cells. In order to detect the presence of RNA in the patient’s sample, labs perform a test called reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. This method first converts any viral RNA to DNA. Then the DNA is replicated millions of times until there are enough copies to detect using a specialized piece of equipment called a quantitative PCR instrument. If genetic material from the virus is found in the sample, then the patient has the virus. It takes between 24 to 72 hours to get the results of a test.
Does Everyone Need to be Tested? – According to medical professionals and the CDC, realistically it isn’t feasible to test everyone who is sick in the US. Most health officials believe it is important to prioritize the testing of people who need it the most: those at high risk such as health care workers who have been in contact with COVID-19 patients; symptomatic people in areas with high infection rates; and people 65 years of age and older with chronic health issues, such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes.
Where can one be tested? – Physicians and other healthcare providers anywhere in the U.S. can order coronavirus test. People will need an actual script from their physician to get the test. It should be noted that neither LabCorp nor Quest will collect specimens on suspected COVID-19 cases. There may be limited instances where one will be directed to LabCorp or Quest but this is unlikely. Instead, specimens will be collected at healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and physician offices and will be sent to Quest or LabCorp using standard procedures. LabCorp and Quest report that test results will be made available in as little as 3 days.
Cost of the Test – There is not a definitive cost yet published in the market, but estimates have the commercial cost of the test at $75 to $95 per test. Actual treatment costs will vary based on each person’s condition.
What to consider communicating with employees? Each company shall need to make business decisions about how they will operate at this time. As it relates to employee benefits, here are suggestions for communicating with employees on benefit issues:
Stay Connected – Conner Strong & Buckelew is monitoring developments moment by moment. We are also tracking state and federal laws that will impact benefit coverage. Our teams are working round-the-clock to stay ahead of developments. We will share more updates as applicable. Call your Conner Strong & Buckelew account representative if you have any questions. We are here to help you at this important time. Thank you.
