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Metro Creative Connection

Higgins announces launch of federal website to request free at-home COVID-19 tests

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Tue, Jan 18th 2022 04:40 pm

Website live in beta phase today, program delivering tests by mail officially kicks off Jan. 19

Congressman Brian Higgins announced the federal government has launched a new website for Americans to request at-home COVID-19 test kits delivered to their homes free of charge. The website, www.covidtests.gov, is now live in beta test phase. The program officially launches on Wednesday. Residents can begin ordering their tests today.

“Access to tests makes it easier for people to protect their families, friends, co-workers, and limits community spread,” Higgins said. “Making tests free and widely available gives people important health information from which to make informed decisions.”

Through the website, each household in the country is eligible to receive four free at-home coronavirus tests. Residents visiting the website will be asked to fill out a simple form that includes their name and address. Those requesting the tests also have the option of including an email address if they would like delivery updates. Shipments made in coordination with the United States Postal Service are scheduled to begin in late January and be delivered around seven to 12 days after placing an order. A toll-free number will also be made available for those who do not have access to the website.

The federal government also recently launched a program that requires health insurance plans to cover or reimburse at-home COVID-19 tests kits at no cost. Plans must cover up to eight at-home tests per person each month. Residents should check with their insurance carrier for additional details on the process for reimbursement.

New York state is currently operating free COVID-19 testing sites locally at UB North Campus, Buffalo State College, Northwest Buffalo Community Center, and Niagara County Community College. Free testing is also available through pharmacies and health centers across the U.S. Find a test site at: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you.

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