COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Has Ended, What Does This Mean For You?
With the Public Health Emergency (PHE) officially ending May 11th, 2023, much of the funding and flexibility that helped us and many other healthcare providers to expand testing, vaccination, coverage, and access to care is changing. At One Community Health we welcome everyone, regardless of whether you have insurance or your ability to pay.
To learn more about some of the upcoming changes that could affect you, please see below.
If you have any questions, please call/text us at 541-386-6380. You can also visit our COVID-19 Resource Center HERE.
Vaccinations, Testing, Treatments, and Costs:
-
After May 11, everyone will continue to have access to COVID-19 vaccines at no cost, just as they did during the PHE. Once the federal government is no longer purchasing or distributing COVID-19 vaccines, payment, coverage, and access may change.
-
One Community Health will continue to provide over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests free of charge at our clinics, while supplies remain available. You can call us at 541-386-6380 to check on availability.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) OTC Test Program is available while supplies last.
Many OTC test kits have their expiration date extended. Check here before throwing those out.
-
You should be aware of the following if you plan to go to your pharmacist/drug store for over-the-counter tests:
The program that allowed Medicare coverage and payment for over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests ended on May 11, 2023.
Medicare Advantage plans may continue to cover the tests, and beneficiaries should check with their plan for details . Call us at 541-386-6380 if you need help.
Private insurance plans will vary.
-
OCH will maintain COVID-19 antiviral treatments at all our clinics for uninsured people as long as supplies remain available. You can call us at 541-386-6380 to check on availability.
Similar to vaccines, access to COVID-19 antiviral treatments will continue with no out-of-pocket costs for nearly all individuals. After the transition to the traditional health care market, out-of-pocket expenses for certain treatments, such as Paxlovid and Lagevrio (Molnupiravir), may change, depending on an individual’s health care coverage, similar to costs that one may experience for other covered drugs. Medicaid programs will continue to cover COVID-19 treatments without cost sharing through September 30, 2024.
Facemasks
On April 3, 2023 the Oregon Health Authority lifted mask requirements in health care settings*
Everyone should feel welcome to continue wearing a mask based on your choice/need. We recommend that you wear a mask while visiting OCH, especially if you have symptoms like cough or runny nose.😷 OCH will continue to provide free masks at our clinics. To learn more on masking, please visit Oregon Health Authority HERE.
* Please note some health care setting may decide to continue requiring masks after the statewide requirement is lifted.
Medicaid Renewals
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government extended health coverage, services and supports for some people. Renewing your Oregon Health Plan (OHP) or Washington Apple Health means making sure you still qualify for Medicaid after the COVID-19 PHE ends. Our Patient Care Advocates (PCAs) are here to help and answer any questions you may have. Call or text us at 541.386.6380, or visit our Medicaid Resource Center HERE.
Prevention
COVID-19 is currently causing thousands of infections and hundreds of deaths each day across the country, especially in older adults and people with disabilities. Even now that the PHE has ended, if you’re sick, stay home and separate from others. Get the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HERE.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent serious illness and hospitalization, not just for COVID-19 but also for the flu and other diseases. To schedule a COVID-19 or flu vaccination, please call 541.386.6380, or click HERE.