Governor Steve Sisolak announced an emergency regulation aimed at preventing price gouging related to COVID-19 on Thursday, the same day officials announced the first presumptive positive case in Nevada.
The regulation ensures Nevadans covered by insurance are able to get treatment and drugs related to the novel coronavirus at normal costs.
“This pre-emptive emergency regulation should give Nevadans confidence to continue taking preventative measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 as well as seeking necessary medical services and prescriptions without fear of higher than normal costs,” Sisolak said in a news release. “Protecting Nevadans is my top priority, and adopting this emergency regulation is a critical piece of our broader plan to anticipate and prepare for the potential impacts of COVID-19.”
The regulation prohibits insurers from hiking out-of-pocket costs in doctor’s offices, urgent care facilities and emergency rooms. It also prohibits insurers from charging to test for COVID-19 or for a vaccine, if one becomes available.
Insurers are also required to provide policyholders with information on available benefits, preventative measures, and options for advice and treatment related to COVID-19.
