U-M health plan members are now eligible to receive up to eight FDA-approved, at-home COVID-19 antigen (rapid) tests each month. Although pharmacies are processing the benefit differently, members will either get their tests at no cost, or be reimbursed.
This measure is part of a federal mandate to fight the surge in COVID-19 infections nationwide. Since it was implemented quickly, pharmacies are still figuring out the best way to process the benefit. U-M's Benefits Office, its pharmacy benefit manager and pharmacy networks are working daily to help members receive the full benefit.
How to Get Rapid Tests
Call your pharmacy before you make the trip to find out how it's processing the benefit. Members have reported different experiences at different pharmacies.
Purchase at the pharmacy, in person
- Show your prescription drug card at the pharmacy counter.
- You may be told that you must pay for the tests, then file for reimbursement. Or, your card may be accepted as payment.
- If you paid when you purchased the tests, save the original receipt, fill out a prescription drug claim form, then send both to Magellan Rx.
More questions about U-M's Health Plan coverage? View frequently asked questions under "Rapid COVID-19 Test Reimbursement."
Free Mail Order Tests Available
A federal mail order service became available Jan. 18. Users can order four rapid COVID-19 tests per household at COVIDtests.gov and have them delivered to their homes.
If You Need Immediate Testing...
Free, immediate testing is available at numerous state and community locations, including the U-M COVID-19 Sampling & Tracking Program. Or search the state of Michigan’s resources to find a local site.
