The end of the public health emergency declaration on May 11, 2023, will not impact coverage for COVID-19 treatments purchased by the federal government.

COVID-19 pharmaceutical treatments purchased by the federal government, such as Paxlovid, will continue to be free to the public, regardless of insurance coverage.

COVID-19 treatments not purchased by the federal government may require a copay:

• Medicare: For people with Medicare, some COVID-19 pharmaceutical treatments may require a copay.
• Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage: People covered by Medicaid and CHIP programs will continue to receive all pharmaceutical treatments at no cost through September 2024. After that date, these treatments will continue to be covered, but states may set limits on usage and may impose a copay on some COVID-19 treatments.
• Private insurance: Coverage for COVID-19 treatment will continue to vary by private insurer. Most people with private insurance coverage will continue to incur cost-sharing for COVID-19 treatments, with the exception of treatments that are currently free to everyone, such as Paxlovid.
• No insurance: People who are uninsured will continue to pay out of pocket for COVID-19 treatments, except for federally-funded treatments like Paxlovid, which are free for everyone. People may continue to find low- and no-cost options at community health centers.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has partnered with Southern Illinois University (SIU) Medicine to offer the Test to Treat program. This program can provide faster, easier access to lifesaving COVID-19 treatments.