U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced bipartisan legislation that would make forthcoming COVID-19 vaccines cost-free for America’s senior citizens enrolled in Medicare.
“We have already lost far too many Americans and West Virginians — especially among our senior population — to COVID-19,” Sen. Capito said. “It is essential that as soon as a safe, effective, and thoroughly reviewed vaccine is available that those with Medicare have access to it without a financial burden.”
The Ensuring Access to COVID-19 Vaccines for Seniors Act, S. 4825, introduced on Oct. 21 by cosponsor Sen. Capito and bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), would provide clarification with respect to the effective date of Medicare coverage of COVID-19 vaccines without any cost-sharing, according to the congressional record bill summary.
“This was the intent of the language Congress passed back in March and what this bill would ensure,” said Sen. Capito, referring to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “While we hope and pray that such a vaccine is imminent, it is essential that until that time comes, we continue to take all efforts to prevent the spread of the disease — including washing our hands, social distancing, and wearing our masks when necessary.”
The CARES Act includes provisions requiring Medicare to cover U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved COVID-19 vaccines with no-cost sharing, according to information provided by Sen. Capito’s office, but the law failed to reconcile Medicare’s current guidelines with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) designations for such vaccines.
The legislation would ensure that traditional Medicare beneficiaries do not face cost-sharing for a COVID-19 vaccine that has an EUA under the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, according to the information.