Government Website To Order Free COVID Tests Launched

After much anticipation, following the news of President Biden’s plan to make 500,000 free COVID-19 rapid tests available to U.S citizens, the long-awaiting federal government website has finally been launched. 

Now in its beta phase, COVIDtests.gov is operating at limited capacity; however, U.S. citizens are encouraged to sign up now and order their free FDA-authorized at-home rapid antigen COVID test. 

The Free Tests Represent Another Significant Step To Help Mitigate The Spread Of COVID.  

According to a statement released on January 14 by The White House, the free tests are another significant step taken by the administration to dramatically increase the nation’s overall COVID testing supply, the number of tests authorized for use in the U.S., and the number of places where citizens can acquire a test. All this while lowering costs and increasing access for local citizens.

These free tests are in addition to the 375 million at-home rapid tests already available on the U.S. market. Currently, nine at-home rapid tests are available on the market. With this, and the new free test website being launched, massive strides have been taken to mitigate the spread of COVID in the U.S. and will continue to be done in the future.

Navigating The Website For Optimal Use 

Not only will citizens be able to order up to four free COVID tests, but they’re able to make use of the multiple resources and information available on the site. After signing up in a matter of minutes, website users can easily navigate through the site.

The online ordering process is simple. Personal and shipping information is required after clicking on the ‘Order Free At-Home Tests’ button. No ID, credit card, or health insurance information is required. However, should individuals want to track their order, an email address is required. 

Once ordered, the United States Postal Service then ships the free tests. The website states that orders within the continental United States are delivered through First-Class Package Service. Regarding shipments to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories, and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (APO/FPO/DPO), tests are delivered by Priority Mail. Orders will be delivered to households within seven to 12 days. 

 Navigation on the website then leads users to other COVID tools, testing sites,  tips, and resources which include: 

• Insurance Reimbursement for At-Home Tests
• Frequently Asked Questions
• 20,000+ Free Testing Sites And State Resources

While not currently available on the site, plans by the federal government to set up a hotline are underway. 

At-Home Self-Tests Recommendations 

Key pointers for these at-home COVID tests have been released on our previous blog. As formerly prescribed by The Center For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals must follow all the manufacturer’s instructions. Whether results render positive or negative outcomes, proper steps should be taken, and health practitioners consulted if needed. 

Additional tips have been released and are as follows:

• All test components must be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions 
• Check the expiration date on the test. Should the test or its components pass the expiry date, become damaged, or appear discolored, performing the test is not recommended. 
• Before performing the test, all countertops, tables, and surfaces must be cleaned. Individuals must also wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Avoid opening the test devices or components until actually needed and only when starting the testing process. 
• Having a timer at hand will help with the timing of different test steps. 
• Do not reuse the test device or any of its components.
• Allow for sufficient time to pass before reading the test results. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions first and adhere to the specified timeframe before reading the results. 
• Tests should only be done when experiencing COVID symptoms or five days after being in close contact with an infected individual. Tests are also to be taken if entering a high-risk environment with a group of unvaccinated individuals.
• If instructions are followed properly, results will be accurate; however , actions can be taken should the test bring an error result.

If Eligible, Order Your Free At-Home COVID Test Now

Tests also referred to as self-tests or over-the-counter (OTC) tests, are available for every residential address in the U.S., including U.S. Territories and overseas military and diplomatic addresses. Those eligible for the free tests are encouraged to order their test as soon as possible.