My wife and I got tested for Covid: our experience
We needed to prove that we were Covid free to take a vacation to Maine this summer; and we had to complete this 72 hours prior to departure. We went to a clinic nearby that had 24 hour results. Medicare paid for my tests but not for expediting the results-$100 fee. My wife is too young for Medicare and the lady giving the test let it be known: "do you have any symptoms...headache, lack appetite, fever etc" She repeated this several times...until we "caught on"...if you have any symptoms then the test is at no charge vs $300. So happens my wife had a stomach ache (could it be from my cooking from nite before?) and that resulted in her test being at no charge (still $100 to expedite results).
By the way the test was painless, which contradicted several other friends findings. Apparently this clinic didn't do the method of sticking the q tip deep into the nasal passages (pain)...they said this method was just as effective.
We fly to Maine (beat the Houston heat) for a 5 day bicycle ride going from town to town staying at B&B's/hotels in various cities. The cycling company moved our luggage between cities while we pedaled along the hilly coastline. Our experience showed only one hotel even asked us to show our Covid papers.
Going forward seems nobody really knows the dynamics for the Fall/Winter season. I've read that the Sars is mutating into other viruses but they are less harmful, but still contagious. Other reports say do not take the flu shot along with the Sars shot (whenever it comes out). I know we all long to see the "norm" return as soon as possible; and others suggest this is the new "norm." Time will tell.
May all of you be safe and at peace during these days.
You pay nothing for this test when you get it from a laboratory, pharmacy, doctor, or hospital, and when Medicare covers this test in your local area.
What it is
Tests done to help your health care provider diagnose or rule out COVID-19. In some circumstances, a home health nurse, laboratory technician, or an appropriately-trained medical assistant may collect your specimen in your home for this test.
Things to know
Note
Medicare Advantage Plans can't charge copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance for clinical lab tests to detect or diagnose COVID-19.
When tests are available for you in your state, Medicare covers and you pay nothing for:
Tests to diagnose or aid the diagnosis of COVID-19
Some tests for related respiratory conditions to aid diagnosis of COVID-19 done together with the COVID-19 test
Medicare covers these tests at different locations, including some "parking lot" test sites.
