The US federal government is preparing to once again ship free at-home COVID tests to households in the US through the COVIDTests.gov website. While an official launch date has not been announced yet, the tests will be available for order at the end of September 2024. The goal is to make testing more accessible as families gather indoors during the fall season, especially around vulnerable individuals. The process of ordering these tests is expected to be simple, with orders typically arriving within a week or two after submission.
In the past, the USPS has distributed free COVID tests through a straightforward ordering process on the CovidTests.gov website. The tests were shipped within a week or two of ordering, with no payment information required. This new round of shipments is expected to follow a similar process, providing four free tests to each household. Individuals without internet access can place orders over the phone, ensuring that everyone has access to the tests. It is recommended to place orders early when the program restarts in September, as the duration of the free tests is not specified.
In the meantime, individuals can still access free COVID testing through various avenues, including HRSA health centers, Test to Treat locations, ICATT testing sites, private health insurance, and Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. These programs offer free testing options for uninsured individuals or those who have been exposed to COVID-19. Additionally, President Joe Biden had mandated health insurance companies to provide eight free COVID tests per month, with California still requiring this coverage. Medicaid and CHIP recipients can also receive free at-home COVID tests through September 30, 2024.
To access free COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots, individuals can utilize the Bridge Access Program, which provides vaccines to uninsured individuals through local health departments and HRSA centers until August 2024. The CDC has partnered with retail pharmacy locations to administer free vaccines as well. These programs aim to make vaccines accessible to all, especially following the CDC’s recommendation for updated booster shots. By visiting vaccines.gov and selecting the Bridge Access Program participant option, individuals can locate locations offering no-cost vaccines. It is essential to stay informed about the availability of vaccines and boosters to protect against COVID-19.
Overall, the US government is taking measures to ensure that testing and vaccination remain accessible to all individuals during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By providing free at-home tests and partnering with various healthcare centers and pharmacies, the government aims to reduce the barriers to testing and vaccination. It is crucial for individuals to utilize these resources and stay up-to-date with the latest recommendations to protect themselves and their communities from the spread of COVID-19.
