Testing plays an important role in the fight against COVID-19, for your health and the health of our communities. Getting vaccinated and keeping up with booster shots is the best way to stay protected. Home COVID-19 antigen tests are another important tool in slowing the spread of the virus. These tests are a free and easy way to get fast results, usually within 30 minutes.
When to use a COVID-19 self-test
Use a COVID-19 self test if you have symptoms; you think you have been exposed to COVID-19; o Plan to meet indoors with people who may be at risk, including unvaccinated children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.
How to get a COVID-19 self-test
There are many ways to get a free COVID-19 self-assessment.
- federal government — Every household in the US is eligible to order up to 8 free self-tests with no shipping charges at covidtests.gov.
- Kaiser Permanente website or mobile app — Complete an eVisit at kp.org/wa or the Kaiser Permanente Washington mobile app to request a self-assessment for home pickup or delivery.
- Kaiser Permanente Pharmacies — If you already plan to visit a Kaiser Permanente location, you can pick up a self-assessment while you’re there, as supplies allow.
- retail pharmacies — Collect self-assessments from participating retail pharmacies, including Walmart and Bartell Drugs. Just bring the COVID-19 test to the pharmacy counter and show your photo ID and Kaiser Permanente ID card. Test availability may vary. Visit kp.org for a list of participating retailers near you.
If you pay for a test authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you can file a claim for reimbursement. Reimbursement will be limited to $12 per test, including sales and shipping tax.
Check the expiration date of your COVID-19 self-test
The FDA has extended the shelf life of the iHealth brand of COVID-19 self-tests. Visit the iHealth website and enter the test lot number to see the new expiration date.
What to do if you receive a positive result
If you receive a positive self-test result for COVID-19, please complete an e-visit immediately to report it. It will be added to your medical record and you will receive guidance on treatment, isolation and quarantine. If you have questions or concerns about your positive test or your symptoms, visit kp.org/getcare or use the Kaiser Permanente Washington mobile app to access care.
What should I do if my COVID-19 test is negative but I still have symptoms?
Continue to treat any symptoms at home and self-isolate until fever free for 24 hours. If your condition worsens, please call our 24/7 Advice Nurse Help Line at 1-800-297-6877.
Visit our COVID-19 testing page for more testing options, FAQs, and updates.
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