” class=”ds-c-tooltip__trigger-link”>Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers diagnostic tests for COVID-19 authorized by the FDA.
Medicare covers up to 8 over-the-counter COVID-19 tests from any participating pharmacy or health care provider each calendar month until the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
- Medicare Part B (medical insurance) will cover these tests if you have Part B. Medicare will not cover over-the-counter COVID-19 tests if you don’t have Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), but you may receive free trials through other programs or insurance coverage you have.
- If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you will receive this benefit through Original Medicare, not from your plan. Check with your plan to see if additional over-the-counter COVID-19 tests are covered.
- You may need to show your red, white, and blue Medicare card to receive over-the-counter COVID-19 tests (even if you have another card from a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare Part D plan).
Your costs in Original Medicare
What is it?
Things you should know
You can receive covered tests at an eligible participating pharmacy or health care provider at no cost to you, even if you are not a current patient or customer.
Access a partial list of pharmacies participating in the over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 testing initiative. Visit the pharmacy website or call the applicable pharmacy for details on participating locations and how to order.
How else can you get free COVID-19 tests?
Protect yourself from scams. Do not share your personal or financial information if someone calls you and promises you free home tests.
