Fall is a time when COVID-19 protection should also be considered along with flu season. Recently, updated COVID vaccines, such as the Novavax vaccine, have become available, and the federal government has resumed sending at-home COVID tests through the COVIDTests.gov website. Individuals can order four free at-home COVID test kits through this website, with the system opening for orders on Sept. 26. In addition to the free tests from USPS, there are several ways to access free COVID testing and treatments, including information on when to get a flu shot and how to distinguish between symptoms of COVID-19, flu, and allergies.
The order process for free COVID tests from the Postal Service is straightforward, taking less than 2 minutes to complete a short form with your name and mailing address. The tests are typically delivered within about a week or two after ordering, with shipping conducted through First-Class Package Service. Individuals without internet access can order tests through a toll-free phone number. While there is uncertainty regarding the longevity of the free COVID tests program, it is advisable to place orders early to ensure availability.
The options for accessing free COVID testing extend beyond the USPS program and include HRSA health centers, Test to Treat locations, ICATT testing sites, private health insurance, and Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. HRSA health centers, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, offer free COVID testing and can be located using the HRSA’s locator tool. Test to Treat locations provide both COVID testing and treatment for infections, with a locator tool available to find nearby centers. ICATT offers free testing to uninsured individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or exposure, with a locator tool to find testing locations.
Following the end of the national public health emergency for COVID-19, the requirement for health insurance companies to provide eight free COVID-19 tests per month also expired. However, California law still mandates free at-home COVID tests for health care providers in the state, while individuals outside California should refer to their insurance policies for coverage details. Medicare coverage for over-the-counter COVID tests ended with the public health emergency, although Medicare Plan B enrollees can access laboratory-conducted COVID tests. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program continue to offer free at-home COVID tests until Sept. 30, 2024.
In conclusion, fall serves as a reminder to consider COVID-19 protection alongside flu season, with updated vaccines and at-home COVID testing options available. The process for ordering free COVID tests from USPS is simple, with tests typically arriving within one to three days after shipping. Alternative options for free COVID testing include HRSA health centers, Test to Treat locations, ICATT testing sites, private health insurance, and Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Understanding coverage details for COVID testing through health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid is important for individuals seeking access to free at-home tests.
