At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Each U.S. household may order 4 FREE at-home, over-the-counter (OTC) rapid antigen COVID-19 tests from the federal government. Visit covidtests.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).

The following health plan benefits will apply until the Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 ends on May 11, 2023.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) diagnostic tests authorized for emergency use, cleared, or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket cost at HWMG’s preferred pharmacies (currently Bartell Drugs, Kinney Drugs, Rite Aid, Sam’s Club, Walgreens and Walmart) for HMAA and Charter participants with medical or prescription coverage. Be sure to present your member ID card at the pharmacy counter and ask to have your purchase submitted to your health plan.
• Alternatively, you may purchase these tests at an online retailer or pharmacy other than HWMG’s preferred pharmacies and be reimbursed at the lower of your cost or $12 per test.

• • HMAA and Charter participants: Visit optumrx.com/testinfo to learn more or to submit a reimbursement request. Reimbursement will be available for purchases made until May 11, 2023. You must submit your claim within one year of purchase.
  • Hawaii Electricians participants: Contact HWMG or your plan administrator regarding reimbursement.

• Our clients’ health plans will cover up to 8 OTC tests per member per calendar month without the need for a healthcare provider’s order, clinical assessment, or other medical management requirements; and at no out-of-pocket cost. If ordered or administered by a healthcare provider, there is no limit on the number of tests covered.

Effective May 12, 2023, HWMG clients’ health plan benefits are as follows:

• Medically necessary diagnostic testing approved under applicable law or developed, authorized, and deemed appropriate by HHS will be covered based on regular plan benefits.
• Tests which are not FDA-approved, and at-home over-the-counter (OTC) COVID tests, will no longer be covered.

The U.S. Department of Labor published FAQs about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. View FAQs.

HWMG continues to closely monitor developments, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available. For further assistance, contact Customer Service.

This notice was last updated on March 13, 2023.