Coverage for COVID-19 tests from UC’s Medicare plans

UC Medicare High Option and UC Medicare PPO will continue to follow Centers for Medicare and Medicaid’s guidance on COVID-19 testing. As of this writing, Medicare will waive the cost-share for PCR testing if ordered by a physician. Members are no longer eligible for free at-home over-the-counter antigen tests. For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to learn more about your Medicare benefits.

In-network and out-of-network at-home antigen COVID-19 tests will no longer be covered, per federal guidance. PCR COVID-19 tests will be covered under the outpatient diagnostic lab benefit at applicable plan cost-sharing. Testing for other purposes, such as for work, school, or travel is not covered.  

Out-of-network (OON) PCR COVID-19 tests will be covered for urgent care and emergency services when ordered by a provider.

Visit kp.org/covid for more information.  

UC Medicare Choice does not cover the costs of over-the-counter COVID-19 antigen tests. Until further notice, UC Medicare Choice will continue to waive the cost-share for PCR tests that are ordered by a physician.