Alaskans,
COVID-19 case counts continue to spike nationwide, driven primarily from of the virus's latest variant, Omicron. I have heard from many Alaskans with urgent questions on how to successfully secure a COVID-19 test. Testing kits have been in short supply, but there are two new options to help Alaskans get COVID-19 rapid antigen tests starting this week.
Whether you need to rule out COVID-19 for a school-aged child or simply want to have peace of mind before attending gatherings, keeping rapid tests on hand can help prevent viral transmission and provide clarity for symptomatic individuals considering treatment.
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 continues to be the most effective way to help protect yourself from severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Getting vaccinated is your choice, and I encourage you to get vaccinated and/or boosted as I have. Click here to find no-cost vaccination sites in Alaska.
Please read about these options below and share them with your family and friends. As always, should you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Don Young
Congressman for All Alaska
No Cost At-Home Testing Through Private Insurance
Following a policy change by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), all private health insurance plans are required to cover the cost of over the counter, at-home COVID-19 tests effective January 15, 2022. This coverage requirement means patients are able to order tests online or at a physical store and either get it covered up front, or submit it for insurance reimbursement.
This policy is still new, and many patients have questions. To learn about where to buy tests, how to submit them for insurance reimbursement, instructions for uninsured individuals seeking no-cost testing, and more, visit the CMS At-Home Testing Frequently Asked Questions page by clicking here.
No Cost At-Home Tests Through the Postal Service
Every home in the United States is now also eligible to order four at-home COVID-19 tests from the federal government. These testing kits are available at no cost through the United States Postal Service. To sign up for your four rapid tests, click here.
Traditional Testing Across Alaska
Traditional testing through pharmacies, health care providers, local governments, and other community-driven initiatives continue to be available to Alaskans. While these testing options are not conducted at home, they are still a valuable way for concerned individuals to learn of potential COVID-19 infection. To locate testing sites across Alaska, click here.
