Delaware Advises Residents on Vaccine Coverage Amid Federal Changes

DELWARE – The Delaware Department of Insurance issued an advisory on Wednesday to residents about carrier’s intentions regarding insurance coverage for immunizations amid changes at the federal level.

Recent developments in potential changes to recommendations for vaccinations have shaken public confidence in federal guidance. The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is slated to meet on Sept. 18 to potentially revise federal recommendations for multiple vaccines, including MMRV (measles-mumps-rubella-varicella).

“Residents are reaching out, concerned that they will lose coverage for and access to the immunizations we rely on to keep our communities healthy,” said Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro. “I am proud to share that several of our commercial carriers have committed to continuing to provide their current level of vaccine coverage to policyholders, and we continue to work to ensure consumers have access to information from all insurers operating in Delaware.”

The advisory provides policy information for AHIP, Aetna CVS Health, AmeriHealth Caritas, Delaware First Health, Highmark, and UnitedHealthcare. Cigna did not share commitments with the state at the time. It should be noted that the consumer advisory does not apply to coverage outside of the commercial market, such as through a self-insured employer or Medicare Advantage plans.

This advisory comes in tandem with a standing order on COVID-19 vaccine availability, issued today by Governor Matt Meyer and the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH). The order calls on the Board of Pharmacy to convene an emergency meeting to protect vaccine access for all Delawareans aged six months and older, regardless of health conditions. It also directs DPH and the Department of Education to begin revising state regulations to ensure that changes to federal guidance do not negatively impact the health and safety of Delaware students.

“Vaccines save lives. Science, not politics, will guide how we keep our communities safe,” said Governor Meyer. “With this standing order and our partnership with neighboring states, we are taking control of our future, ensuring that every Delawarean has access to the protection they need.”

For more information on accessing immunizations in Delaware, talk to your primary care provider, your pharmacy, or your local public health clinic.