Over-the-counter (OTC) Covid test kits are not covered by Medicare. However, testing that is ordered by a doctor and conducted in your doctor's office, clinic, or pharmacy is covered by Medicare Part B. There are currently types of tests for Covid-19:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests
- Antigen tests
PCR tests are conducted in person by a healthcare provider and sent to a lab for testing. This type of test is considered the “gold standard” for Covid-19 testing accuracy.
You can find a PCR testing site near you by visiting the CDC's testing locator and entering your zip code. The locator will find a testing site within a radius as small as five miles and up to 100 miles.
Antigen tests, or rapid tests, can be purchased over the counter and used anywhere. While PCR tests are more accurate in the long run, rapid antigen tests are a quick and effective way to get a preliminary diagnosis or if you feel there's a good chance you have the virus. Find out more about PCR and antigen tests by visiting the CDC website.
Your Costs for Rapid Covid Test Kits
OTC Covid rapid tests can range from about $7 to $50 at a retail pharmacy, depending on the brand and how many kits are in a package. Again, you can visit your doctor or test site and have a PCR test done without paying a copay or coinsurance.
Although COVID-19 restrictions have eased, folks still need to be aware of contracting or carrying the illness. People with the following conditions are considered high-risk for complications associated with COVID-19 and should get tested regularly:
- Aged 60 and older.
- Affected by heart or lung disease.
- Diagnosed with diabetes.
- Have conditions that affect the immune system.
Anyone fitting more than one of these categories should be especially careful around those who have been exposed to or are showing COVID-19 symptoms. Continuing to limit the spread of COVID-19 takes a community effort, and there are solutions for Medicare beneficiaries to ensure they receive testing as they need it.
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World Health Organization: COVID-19 High Risk Groups
CDC: Coronavirus Symptoms and Testing
CDC Testing Locator
Medicare.gov: COVID-19 Diagnostic Laboratory Tests
