CommercialCoverageMedium impact
COVID-19 vaccine cost sharing
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics +1 more·Physician / Facility
Effective date
Nov 1, 2023
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI reminds providers that they cannot charge cost-sharing (copays, deductibles) to fully insured commercial members for COVID-19 vaccine administration, following FDA approval and CDC recommendation of the new booster. This is required under Rhode Island state law RIGL 27-18-86(b).
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must update systems to waive all cost-sharing (copays, deductibles, coinsurance) for COVID-19 vaccine administration for fully insured commercial BCBSRI members. Verify billing software automatically applies zero patient responsibility for vaccine visits. Update front desk procedures to inform patients no payment is required.