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Human Resources  ›  HR News  ›  2022  ›  At-Home COVID Testing Update

Closeup of COVID test kit

February 07, 2022

At-Home COVID Testing Update

As previously reported, under the government program, faculty and staff members who participate in CMU's pharmacy benefit can receive up to eight COVID-19 at home test kits (one test per package) per 30 consecutive days. Tests bought on or after January 15, 2022 are eligible for this program.

Important Update Regarding Direct Coverage

CVS Caremark has notified CMU that, due to a combination of staffing shortages, supply problems and technical issues, they are experiencing difficulties with the administration of the direct coverage program resulting in inconsistent processing and an unsatisfactory plan participant experience. As a result, the Office of Human Resources is recommending that plan participants utilize the reimbursement process below to obtain at home test kits.

CVS Caremark has advised that it is working on creating a digital point of sale solution across all their stores to enable a better, more consistent customer experience. This new digital tool will allow plan participants to confirm availability of tests, place an order, and pick up their tests from a nearby store while processing the tests under their pharmacy benefit. They are targeting a launch in mid-February. Information will be provided as it becomes available.

Reimbursement Process

Continuing through the end of the mandate due to the public health emergency, employees who participate in a CMU medical plan can request reimbursement through the following methods. A $2.50 processing fee associated with the reimbursement option will be billed to the plan and will not be incurred by the employee.