OTC COVID-19 Test Prescribing Authority
Some pharmacies are wondering if they are allowed to continue prescribing OTC COVID-19 tests. The eleventh amendment to the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) was issued on May 12, 2023 and extends PREP Act coverage through December 31, 2024 to allow licensed pharmacists to order and administer COVID-19 countermeasures including COVID-19 vaccines, seasonal influenza vaccines, and COVID-19 tests.
Coverage for OTC COVID-19 tests varies by payer. See summary below:
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- Medicare Part B coverage ceased as of May 12, 2023
- Medicare Advantage plans may cover and pay for OTC COVID-19 tests as an added benefit
- Medicaid coverage should continue through September 30, 2024
- Commercial insurance coverage will vary; however, plans are not required to cover after May 11, 2023
PAAS Tips:
- The eleventh amendment to PREP Act extends pharmacist prescribing authority through end of 2024
- Point-of-sale edits should be relied upon to understand if OTC product is covered
- Only dispense OTC COVID-19 tests upon patient request – do not autofill
- Ensure you retain documentation of patient request using PAAS’ Attestation form
Analyst at PAAS National®
As an Analyst, I focus on providing pre- and post-audit assistance, answering various member service questions, and researching & drafting articles for the Third-Party Newsline. I work with many of our members involved with invoice audits.
I obtained my PharmD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy and worked for a major chain as well as various LTC and independent pharmacies, before coming to PAAS.
I am passionate about learning and teaching. I strive to learn something new about PBM audits every day, so that PAAS can be more knowledgeable to better serve our members! In 2018, I started traveling to state pharmacy conferences to present audit seminars and meet our wonderful members in person.
I obtained my PharmD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy and worked for a major chain as well as various LTC and independent pharmacies, before coming to PAAS.
I am passionate about learning and teaching. I strive to learn something new about PBM audits every day, so that PAAS can be more knowledgeable to better serve our members! In 2018, I started traveling to state pharmacy conferences to present audit seminars and meet our wonderful members in person.
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