Minnesota offers final round of free home COVID-19 tests
Jan. 11—ST. PAUL — Minnesota residents are eligible to receive four more free COVID-19 tests.
This will be the final chance for people to get free tests before the program ends, according to a news release from the Minnesota Department of Health.
More than 2.5 million tests have been delivered to Minnesotans since the program began, according to the release. To order free at-home tests, go to
.
To order by phone, call the Health Department's Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Language assistance is available.
"Testing is essential in getting the proper treatment to those who need it and preventing the spread of COVID-19," Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham said in the release. "The state's free online ordering program made it simple for Minnesotans in every corner of the state to easily access critical testing."
Testing continues to be important for preventing the spread of the virus, according to the release. People who have symptoms or have had close contact with someone who has COVID-19 should be tested. For more details and additional information on when to get tested, see the
Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Testing page.
Free tests may also be available at food banks, local public health agencies and other community organizations.
Anyone can walk in or schedule an appointment for a test at one of the state's free COVID-19 Community Testing Sites or find a testing option near them through the state's
Find Testing Locations map
.
Health plans are currently required to cover the cost of at-home tests. Minnesotans can receive free tests by showing an insurance card at a store. They should check with their health plans before purchasing tests, to be sure they are following the necessary steps.
People who are at high risk and develop symptoms should be tested right away. Dozens of pharmacies in the state are participating in the federal Test to Treat program.
They will administer a test and assess patients. If they are eligible, they can receive and fill a prescription for pills at the same time. The federal government has a
Test to Treat site
which provides locations.
For more information, call the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Public Hotline at 1-833-431-2053 Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
