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NY Insurers to Cover Updated COVID Vaccine Amid Guidelines

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Three major health insurers in New York—Aetna, Emblem Health, and United Health Care—will cover the updated COVID-19 vaccine for fully insured members, despite unclear federal guidelines.
Self-funded employer plans will make independent coverage decisions.
Governor Kathy Hochul urged insurers to provide coverage for all New Yorkers as federal recommendations become more limited.
The FDA authorized the updated vaccine for individuals aged 65 and older and younger individuals with chronic conditions.
The CDC indicates the private sector cost of the vaccine is approximately $140, with CVS charging up to $250 out-of-pocket.

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Story summary

Three major health insurers in New York—Aetna, Emblem Health, and United Health Care—will cover the updated COVID-19 vaccine for fully insured members, despite unclear federal guidelines.
Self-funded employer plans will make independent coverage decisions.
Governor Kathy Hochul urged insurers to provide coverage for all New Yorkers as federal recommendations become more limited.
The FDA authorized the updated vaccine for individuals aged 65 and older and younger individuals with chronic conditions.
The CDC indicates the private sector cost of the vaccine is approximately $140, with CVS charging up to $250 out-of-pocket.