COVID Vaccine Fees and Insurance Denials: What You Need to Know

Pharmacy customers across the US, including those at Walgreens and CVS, were surprised to discover they were being charged fees ranging from $125 to $200 for their new COVID-19 booster shots. The unexpected costs are due to pharmacies ordering vaccines before insurance plans updated their billing codes. Some pharmacists have even advised customers to reschedule their appointments. While COVID vaccines were previously free under the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration, insurance plans are now required to cover vaccination costs with no co-pays. Uninsured individuals can still receive free vaccines through local health care centers, health departments, or participating pharmacies.