Kansas State University

COVID-19 emergency status ending

Submitted by HCS Benefits

Based on current COVID-19 trends, the Department of Health and Human Services is planning for the federal public health emergency for COVID-19 to expire at the end of the day on May 11. 

While preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, remains a public health priority, it will no longer be considered a health emergency.

What does this mean for State Employee Health Plan members?

• During the emergency period, members were not charged for home over-the-counter COVID-19 tests. With the end of the Public Health Emergency, these home tests will no longer be covered under the State Employee Health Plan benefits.
• During the emergency period, members were not charged for lab tests for COVID-19 conducted at provider's offices, including PCR and antigen tests. With the end of the public health emergency, these tests will be covered under normal plan benefits, subject to the deductible, coinsurance or copay provisions of your plan.
• Vaccines and immunizations for COVID-19 will continue to be covered under the preventive benefits of your health plan, including initial vaccinations and boosters. Preventive services are covered at 100% for members when using a network provider.
• Treatment for COVID-19 will continue to be covered under the State Employee Health Plan benefits, subject to the normal plan provisions.

These changes will be effective May 12. 

View more information about these changes and a complete list of COVID-19 emergency changes. View the CVS Caremark PDF flyer. 

If you have any questions, contact SEHPBenefits@ks.gov at any time.