Health Benefits Year in Review and Future Outlook

This advisory serves as a guide detailing key developments in health benefits for the year 2022 and what to expect in 2023. It begins with the conclusion of the COVID-19 public health and national health emergencies on May 11, 2023, which will lead to significant changes for plan sponsors. For instance, group health plans will no longer be mandated to cover over-the-counter COVID-19 tests without cost-sharing. The document also discusses the extension of the telehealth safe harbor for high deductible health plans, effective for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2023. Additionally, it outlines provisions from the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, including protections against surprise medical bills and new reporting requirements for brokers and consultants. The advisory further addresses mental health parity requirements and transparency regulations that impact group health plans, emphasizing the need for compliance with these evolving standards.