How the end of the Public Health Emergency impacts employee Benefit Plans

Here at ADP® we understand that many employers may have questions and concerns about the impact of the anticipated May 11, 2023, end of the federal COVID-19 National Emergency and Public Health Emergency Orders. We want to let you know that on March 29, 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued frequently asked questions (FAQ) guidance to assist employers preparing for the end of these Orders. The FAQ guidance addresses questions related to the extended deadlines for COBRA, special enrollments and group health plan claims and appeals. The FAQ guidance also addresses coverage of vaccines.  Click here for more information.

Next steps

Review the FAQs for more details including what coverage of COVID-19 vaccines and preventive services, tests and treatment is required (or encouraged) after the Public Health Emergency Order expires.

Plan sponsors should be aware of the effect that the expiration of the two emergency periods will have on their benefit plans and will need to decide whether to continue to extend benefit plan deadlines. Regardless of any decision on continuing to extend deadlines, plan sponsors should consider how to communicate with participants about these issues.