Free and low-cost at-home tests for COVID-19 are now available

At-home tests, also called “self-tests,” allow you to test for COVID-19 anywhere and give you a result in fifteen minutes (as opposed to molecular PCR tests, which need to be sent to a lab for processing). At-home tests have become more widely available in recent weeks and are an important way to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

You may want to consider self-testing before gathering with others, or if you have recently been in contact with someone who has COVID-19. Learn more about self-testing from the CDC and when you should get tested. If you complete a self-test and test positive, here’s what you should do.

As of this month, you can request to receive four free self-tests through the US Postal Service.  Self-tests are also available from many pharmacies, health care facilities, and even some schools and community organizations. If you have insurance or Medicaid, you can get reimbursed for up to eight self-tests per month.

If you have any questions about self-testing, ask your provider. Patients at the Institute for Family Health can also get a free self-test at their health center—just ask at your next visit.

Self-testing is one important way to stay informed about your health and protect others. Test yourself regularly, continue to wear your mask, and get your vaccine or booster.