August 6, 2020
Premera will not include molecular/antigen or antibody testing for COVID-19 return-to-work strategies. This is similar to our policy for drug testing for employment purposes.
The CDC’s Interim Guidelines are that antibody test results “should not be used to make decisions about returning persons to the workplace.” The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has stated that, “requiring antibody testing before allowing
employees to re-enter the workplace is not allowed under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).” Current versions of the antibody test can’t reliably tell a person that they’re immune, can’t be re-infected, or can’t transmit the virus to someone
else.
Return-to-work COVID-19 tests aren’t covered by the plan. Members may want to check with their employer on whether they will reimburse for this expense or bill directly to the employer.