At the beginning of the pandemic, the federal government set up funding that allowed hospitals and physicians offices to offer free COVID-19 testing, treatment and vaccine administration to anyone – including those that were uninsured – as a concerted effort to give each person an equal opportunity to receive care. As of last week, that program is no longer accepting any claims for COVID-19 testing or treatment, and as of April 5, it will no longer accept claims for vaccine administration.
For self-pay or uninsured patients, this might seem scary, but there are still options available. San Miguel County Public Health continues to offer free community testing from 10-11am on Tuesdays and Thursdays at The Depot, and can provide free antigen tests outside of those days if those times won’t work. You can also order at-home test kits for free at covidtests.gov. No proof of residency is required.
When someone is ill, easy access to treatment is important. If you are uninsured and unable to pay the full cost of care, please ask us about financial assistance offered through the Medical Center. If you have health insurance including commercial plans, Medicare or Medicaid, your plan should still cover COVID-19 testing, treatment and vaccination costs – there is no action needed on your side. If we can help answer any questions as these changes take effect, please don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting the Medical Center at (970) 728-3848.
