For the time being, California-regulated health insurance plans are not allowed to charge for COVID-19 tests or vaccines.

Even if you opt for out-of-network testing or receive a COVID-19 vaccine at a retail pharmacy, your health insurance plan is expected to cover the expenses until November.

Although California’s state of emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic has concluded, the ongoing impact of the virus during the winter may leave you uncertain about what your health insurance plan covers.

If you hold health insurance in California, most individuals can still expect full coverage for COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and treatment until early November 2023. However, it’s important to note that this applies to health plans regulated by the state of California, but not all plans.

Enrollees in health plans overseen by the state of California retain the right to receive COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and treatment without incurring any “cost-sharing” until November 11, 2023.

All health policies and plans available in the individual market, including those offered through Covered California, are subject to state regulations. This encompasses plans from HMOs such as Kaiser Permanente, and Medi-Cal managed plans in California, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Managed Health Care.

“Cost-sharing” encompasses co-pays, co-insurance, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket expenses, excluding health plan premiums.

Whether you opt for testing outside your network or receive a COVID-19 vaccine at a retail pharmacy, your health insurance plan should continue to cover these costs.