End of the Public Health Emergency: Over The Counter COVID-19 Test Kits

With the end of the PHE on 5/11/ 2023, coverage for COVID-19 testing for Americans will change. Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in Medicare Part B will continue to have coverage without cost sharing for laboratory-conducted COVID-19 tests when ordered by a provider.

However, current access to free OTC COVID-19 tests will end, consistent with the statute on Medicare payment for OTC tests set by Congress.

Resources: 

• CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the Transition Forward from the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency | CMS
• Fact Sheet: COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Transition Roadmap | HHS.gov

Posted 4/24/2023