If you have been having difficulty purchasing rapid at-home COVID tests these past few weeks or have paid a substantial higher amount than a month ago you will be happy to hear the latest federal program to help fight against the spread of the virus.
As of January 15th, health insurers are obliged to pay for at-home COVID test kits. The federal mandate allows insurance companies to establish in- network pharmacies and capping it off at $12/kit for out-of-network retailers. Carriers are also encouraged to cover the costs up front rather than asking members to file for reimbursement. They are allowing up to 8 tests per person per month. Unfortunately, the reimbursement does not apply to medicare or medicaid recipients unless they have a secondary that would cover the cost.
At-home rapid rests are usually available at Walgreens, Walmart, CVS and online retailers such as Amazon. Make sure to check which retailers are in-network with your insurance carrier. President Biden has stated that they are “on track to roll out a website next week where you can order free tests shipped to your home”.