Does Medicare Cover COVID Tests?

By Daniel Petkevich

Dec 21, 2022

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Diagnostic and at-home tests are covered

Diagnostic tests in a doctor's office, hospital, or pharmacy are covered at no cost to you.

Overview of Medicare Coverage for COVID Testing

Medicare will cover COVID tests at no cost to you, including diagnostic tests in a doctor's office or hospital. Some Advantage plans may still cover some over-the-counter COVID tests at no cost.

You may also be eligible for Telehealth visits related to the diagnosis of the coronavirus (COVID-19) if your doctor or other healthcare provider accepts assignment for the service. Recent legislation authorized an extension of many of the Medicare telehealth flexibilities that were in place during the COVID-19 public health emergency through December 31, 2024.

In addition, Medicare is expanding coverage to include many lab tests, such as antibody and antigen tests, when ordered by your doctor or another healthcare provider. Medicare will also cover certain services related to COVID-19, such as inpatient hospital care, outpatient hospital care, emergency department visits, and more.

What Types of Tests are Covered by Medicare?

Medicare covers diagnostic tests for COVID-19 infection in a doctor's office or hospital. In addition, Medicare coverage includes many laboratory tests related to the diagnosis and treatment of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Medicare is also covering services related to COVID-19, including inpatient hospital care, outpatient hospital care and emergency department visits. Medicare will cover these services if you need additional medical care due to COVID-19 infection.

How to Access Free Diagnostic Tests?

If you're looking to get a free diagnostic test through Medicare, you'll need to find a provider that accepts Medicare assignment. You can search for providers in your area by using the Provider Finder tool on the Medicare website. Once you've found a provider, contact them directly to arrange for testing and coverage.

Other Resources For More Information on Medicare and COVID Testing

If you have any questions about Medicare coverage for COVID testing, contact your local Social Security office or visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website. The website also has information on other types of coverage and financial assistance options related to COVID-19.

You can also find help understanding your medical bills at the Health Care Cost Institute website. The website provides tools, resources and tips on how to understand your medical bills and how to negotiate them if needed.

No matter what type of testing you need, it's important that you reach out for help if you're having any difficulty accessing care or understanding your coverage. Medicare is here to support you in getting the care you need during this time.

Takeaway

Medicare covers diagnostic tests for COVID-19 infection in a doctor's office or hospital. Medicare is also covering services related to COVID-19, such as inpatient hospital care, outpatient hospital care and emergency department visits. Fair Square Medicare is here for all your Medicare-related questions. Call today to speak with one of our Medicare experts.