New York Announces Measures to Educate and Respond to Coronavirus

New York State leaders are trying to calm nerves following word this weekend that the state has its first confirmed case of Coronavirus in a Downstate healthcare worker who recently returned from Iran.

Governor Andrew Cuomo's office March 2 issued a slew of news releases and made appearances regarding state response to COVID-19, including word that testing capacity is being increased and advising people about increased intense cleaning in public areas, especially in New York City.

The Governor also assured residents that the costs of testing for the virus at the state's Wadsworth Laboratory near Albany are to be fully covered. Cuomo announced a new directive by the New York State Department of Financial Services requiring New York health insurers to waive the cost-sharing associated with testing for novel Cornoavirus including emergency room, urgent care and office visits.

The Democrat adds, New Yorkers receiving Medicaid coverage will not be expected to pay a co-pay for any testing related to COVID-19.

The order prohibits health insurers from imposing cost-sharing on an in-network provider, office visit or urgent care center when the purpose of the visit is to be tested for COVID-19 and prohibits health insurers from imposing cost-sharing on an emergency room visit when the purpose of the visit is to be tested for COVID-19.

The State Department of Health has information for people with questions about the Coronavirus on the health department website. Residents can also call 1-888-364-3065.