January 18, 2022
Expanded over-the-counter COVID-19 testing options available
The State Employee Health Plan and the federal government have announced important updates regarding at-home and over-the-counter COVID-19 test kits. On Jan. 10, the federal government directed health plans to cover the cost of over-the-counter test kits without imposing cost-share requirements, prior authorizations or other medical requirements.
As a result, effective Jan. 15, the State Employee Health Plan will cover over-the-counter tests purchased from that date forward during the public health emergency. Coverage is limited to eight tests per 30 days for each covered member. For example, an employee who covers their spouse and two children would be eligible for 32 tests per 30-day period.
Kits may be purchased through a network pharmacy by presenting your CVS Caremark card at the point of purchase. Please note kits purchased from a non-network pharmacy may have limited reimbursements and paper claims forms must be submitted. Network pharmacies can be located in your CVS Caremark member portal. Questions can be best addressed by CVS Caremark at 800-294-6324 or the State Employee Health Plan at SEHPBenefits@ks.gov.
The federal government also announced free at-home rapid test kits can be ordered through COVIDtests.gov beginning Wednesday, Jan. 19. Up to four free tests per household will be available and should ship within seven to 12 days of order. Order updates will be available by email if provided at the time of request. Those without computer access will also be able to request no-cost kits through a yet-to-be-determined phone number.
Human Capital Services will provide additional updates as they become available. Please contact your HCS-Benefits team at benefits@k-state.edu for questions or support.