Coronavirus (COVID 19): New Legislation Update for Employers

There have been a lot of changes and buzzwords coming out of COVID-19 this past week. Here is what you need to know:
  • This law goes into effect in 15 days and does affect small employers.  Today there are no regulations exempting small businesses with fewer than 50 employees; this may change, but right now you will want to prepare to move forward with the new law. This article from Dewitt Law Firm provides more detail about employer’s obligations.
This coverage mandate applies to the following health plans and issuers, regardless of grandfathered status under the Affordable Care Act (ACA):
  • All fully insured group health plans
  • All self-insured group health plans
  • Health insurance issuers offering group or individual coverage
During this public health emergency, health plans and issuers must cover FDA-approved diagnostic testing products for COVID-19, including any items or services provided during a visit to a provider (in-person or telehealth), urgent care center or emergency room that relate to COVID-19 testing. This coverage cannot be subject to any plan deductible, copayment or coinsurance
  • Focusing on mental well-being is important during these uncertain times.
  • Maintain a Routine
    One of the best things that you can do to preserve your mental well-being is to stick to a routine. For example, if you’re used to going to the gym before work, try to wake up early and get an at-home workout in before you go to work or start your workday from home. Maintaining as much normalcy as possible with your daily routine can help keep your mood as lifted as possible, and prevent boredom and distress from taking over.
    If you have children that will be at home now, it’s also important to create a routine for them. Whether they are practicing virtual learning with their schools or if they will just be home, you should implement a structured schedule for them so they know what your expectations are. Try to limit as much screen time as possible and incorporate learning activities throughout the day.
  • Get a Good Night’s Sleep
    This suggestion goes hand-in-hand with sticking to a routine. While you’re at home, it can be easy to go to bed or sleep in later than you typically would. Breaking your normal sleep routine can have negative effects on your overall mental well-being, so you should try to stick to your typical schedule as much as possible.
  • Spend Time Outside
    Unless health officials give you explicit instructions to stay in your home no matter what, try to get outside periodically throughout the day. This could involve going out in your backyard or taking a walk around the block, but shouldn’t include going to a park or other areas where large groups of people may be.  Being outside also helps to promote higher vitamin D levels, a vitamin the body makes when skin is directly exposed to the sun. Many people are deficient in vitamin D, so exercising outside can be a great way to correct that.
We hope everyone is staying well, and will keep you posted as new developments occur!