Pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens are no longer limiting customers on the maximum number of rapid over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests that may be purchased at one time. Previously, CVS only allowed six tests to be purchased at once and at Walgreens, only four. Due to an increase in supply, these restrictions have been lifted.
Insurance-covered rapid tests
It is important to understand that there are still limitations on how many tests insurance companies will cover. Despite CVS and Walgreens having no limits on the quantity of rapid COVID tests that one may purchase, insurance companies will only be covering a maximum of eight tests per 30-day period for every covered person in the household. Tests can be purchased after that limit has been hit, but those additional tests will not be covered by insurance.
Free tests from the federal government are still available at covidtests.gov. The limit of four tests per household is still in effect.
Medicare and rapid test coverage
Beginning in early spring, Medicare and Medicare Advantage recipients will be eligible for free OTC COVID tests. Eight tests per month will be covered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This is the first time ever that Medicare is covering OTC tests at no cost to beneficiaries. The new initiative will allow Medicare to directly cover payment at participating pharmacies.
Make sure to stay up-to-date on information pertaining to COVID and rapid COVID tests as the situation is continually developing. Remember to look to your specific insurance carrier to confirm if your tests are covered. For any questions or concerns, contact your dedicated Creative Benefits, Inc. team member.