Columbus Public Health offering free home COVID-19 test kits NBC4 WCMH-TV

This product has not been FDA cleared or approved, but has been authorized by FDA under an EUA. Each kit comes with everything you need to complete your COVID-19 test, including full illustrated instructions. If approved, you will receive a link to Vault Health with your test code number.

The US Government does not want to construct any barriers that would deter the use of self-tests. COVID-19 surveillance continues to be based on results from laboratory testing. The primary role of case reporting is to allow public health agencies to take actions to mitigate disease spread. The public health community, including CDC, is confident that situational awareness remains strong without receiving self-test results. Once you have your test kit, carefully read the instructions prior to beginning, follow the steps to complete your test, and self-report your results.

COVID 19 Test Kits

Each test strip has an expiration date printed on the outside carton. Do not use the kit beyond the expiration date printed on the outside carton. Additional information regarding product expiration may be found with product-specific information available through theHealth Center COVID-19 Online Community. Management of expired materials is the responsibility of the health center or rural health clinic. For additional information on available COVID-19 screening and testing near you, visitFind a Health Center.

Insurance companies are required to reimburse you at a rate of up to $12 per individual test (or the cost of the test, if less than $12). At-home self-tests for COVID-19 are those that a patient can perform at home or in another location without the assistance of a health care provider. These types of tests offer fast results and may be more convenient than laboratory-based or Medical masks point-of-care tests in certain situations. The department is referring people to their public libraries or recreation centers, where tests are distributed free when in stock. For those needing documentation for employment or travel, the department is referring people to Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center for PCR, or molecular, tests that require an appointment.

If you cover yourself and your family, for a total of 4 plan members, then you would be eligible for reimbursement of up to 32 tests in a month. If you are enrolled in any of the University’s medical plans, you can now order COVID-19 home test kits online through the Optum Store with a $0 cost. Sign in to optumrx.com, scroll down to Get at-home COVID-19 tests with $0 copay, and click on the “Order Now” link. If you are enrolled in any face mask of the University’s medical plans, we have partnered with OptumRx, the University’s pharmacy benefit manager, to provide reimbursement for COVID-19 at-home tests. Through your prescription drug benefit, you can either purchase at-home COVID tests through the OptumRx preferred pharmacy network or at any alternative retailer. Residents can also visit local pharmacies or order online to purchase rapid test kits on their own, as needed.

The site also provides educational resources to help organizations implement testing programs. There is generally no limit on the number of COVID-19 diagnostic tests, including at-home tests, that must be covered when ordered or administered by a health care provider. Consumers can find out from their plan if it is providing such direct coverage of over-the-counter COVID-19 tests. You will not need to seek reimbursement later for tests received through such a program.

This project will continue at least through the end of 2021. For questions about travel, high-risk activities, and other testing guidance, access CDC’s testing page. Self-collection test kits are available at no cost for individuals who live or work in Orange County.

All travelers (even if fully vaccinated or up-to-date) should test 3-5 days after travel. Self-isolate at home and stay away from others for at least 5 days. A positive test means it is very likely you have COVID-19 and could spread it to others.