As fall approaches, the federal government is gearing up to relaunch its program in partnership with the US Postal Service to deliver free COVID tests to US households. The COVIDTests.gov website announced that households will be able to order four free at-home COVID test kits in late September. This initiative aims to provide families with the tools they need as they start spending more time indoors and with their loved ones, especially those who are very old or very young. The previous program was halted on March 8, 2024, but until the relaunch, there are other ways to access free COVID testing, treatments, and vaccines.
One of the options to find free COVID testing locations across the US is through HRSA health centers, which offer free testing funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration. By using their locator tool, individuals can find a center near them and follow specific instructions to obtain a free COVID test. Another option is the Test to Treat program, which provides both COVID testing and treatment for infections. By using the Test to Treat locator tool, individuals can find eligible centers where they can receive these services. ICATT, or Increasing Community Access to Testing, is specifically designed for uninsured patients who have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms. The ICATT locator tool allows individuals to find testing locations and follow the steps to schedule an appointment.
President Joe Biden previously announced that health insurance companies would offer eight free COVID-19 tests per month, but this requirement expired with the end of the national public health emergency for COVID-19. Medicare generally does not cover over-the-counter COVID test kits, although laboratory-conducted tests may be covered. Health coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program can still provide free at-home COVID tests until September 30, 2024. Accessing free COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots is essential for protection against the virus. Vaccines are 100% free for all individuals living in the US, with options available through the Bridge Access Program for those who are uninsured. The CDC has also partnered with retail pharmacy locations to offer free vaccines through the ICATT program.
Overall, as the fall season approaches and COVID-19 infections rise, the federal government is taking steps to provide free COVID test kits to US households. In the meantime, individuals can access free testing through HRSA health centers, Test to Treat locations, and ICATT. Health insurance coverage for COVID tests varies, with Medicare generally not covering over-the-counter kits. Free COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots are available through the Bridge Access Program and retail pharmacy locations. Staying informed about available resources and taking steps to protect oneself and loved ones against COVID-19 remains crucial during this time.
