Given the unprecedented current caseload of COVID-19 in Rhode Island and globally, we want to make you aware of multiple options for procuring free tests and high-quality masks. This information is available under COVID-19 > Resources > Tests and Masks and will be updated with additional information as available. Please also consult the latest updates at Healthy Brown and contact Health Services with any medical concerns.
Free Tests
1) Brown University Local Distribution
Rapid antigen test kits and KN95 masks will be available to Brown students, faculty and staff for pick-up at Alumnae Hall and One Davol Square. You must have your Brown ID card with you to pick up supplies. Each community member will be given two (2) rapid antigen tests and a pack of ten (10) KN95 masks.
2) U.S. Government Mail Distribution
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home rapid antigen COVID-19 tests online. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
3) Insurance Reimbursement of Locally-Purchased Tests
Starting January 15, most people with a health plan can go online, or to a pharmacy or store to purchase an at-home over-the-counter COVID-19 rapid antigen diagnostic test authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at no cost, either through reimbursement or free of charge through their insurance. Maximum reimbursement is 8 tests per month at $12 per test ($24 for a 2-pack).
The SHIP provided by UHCSR allows you to get at-home COVID-19 tests at no upfront cost if purchased at an in-store Walmart Pharmacy or in-store Rite Aid Pharmacy counter with your health insurance member ID card. For tests purchased at any other in-store or online retailer, you must submit a receipt for reimbursement online at uhcsr.com/MyAccount along with the completion of a reimbursement form.
4) State-Run Testing Sites
Schedule a free test for yourself or a dependent child at a State-run COVID-19 test site. All Rhode Islanders can schedule a test online at portal.ri.gov or by calling 401-222-8022. You do not need an appointment to get tested at a mobile test site in your community.
Massachusetts Residents: Testing for COVID-19 is widely available in Massachusetts. Find a testing location near you. You are also eligible to get free PCR tests by mail through a state-sponsored program with Labcorp – visit this website for details.
Free Masks
1) Brown University Local Distribution
Rapid antigen test kits and KN95 masks will be available to Brown students, faculty and staff for pick-up at Alumnae Hall and One Davol Square. You must have your Brown ID card with you to pick up supplies. Each community member will be given two (2) rapid antigen tests and a pack of ten (10) KN95 masks.
2) U.S. Government Local Distribution (Coming Soon)
The Biden administration will make 400 million N95 masks available to Americans for free starting next week, a White House official told CNN, the latest federal step aimed at reining in the US’ Covid-19 surge. The masks — which are coming from the Strategic National Stockpile — will be made available at a number of local pharmacies and community health centers, the official said, adding that the program will be “fully up and running by early February.” “This is the largest deployment of personal protective equipment in US history,” the official said. People looking to pick up the free masks will be limited to three per person, a White House official said.