More providers inflating prices for out-of-network COVID-19 tests, insurer survey says

Nearly a quarter of all claims for COVID-19 tests are coming from out-of-network providers, and the share of claims for tests with inflated prices has grown since this summer, according to a survey from the health insurance trade group America’s Health Insurance Plans. 

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The survey, conducted in October, was fielded to insurers that the trade group represents. It asked about the prices charged by out-of-network providers for COVID-19 diagnostic, antibody and antigen tests. The trade group received 22 responses from insurers that represent 76 percent of its members’ commercial enrollment. It follows a similar survey members of the trade group completed in July.

Compared to the July survey, in October insurers reported a higher share of claims for COVID-19 tests with costs that were much greater than the average $130. Among insurers that responded to both surveys, their share of out-of-network tests grew by 14 percent since July. 

The trade group also found the share of claims for COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody tests that cost more than 50 percent of the average cost have increased by 10 percent since July. 

To view the full report, click here.

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