BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) – Testing for coronavirus is on the rise as families prepare for the holidays. Depending on where you get a test from, you may have to pay out of your own pocket.
Most urgent care centers and pharmacies will charge around $100 for a coronavirus test, though your health insurance may cover the cost.
WellNow Urgent Care, for example, charges $100 for a test.
CVS is promoting its test for $139, though insurance will cover it. Rite Aid initially announced Tuesday that, beginning December 1, all coronavirus tests would cost $115, though they later clarified to say no-charge testing will continue this weekend.
Coronavirus testing sites that are operated by local and state government can test people at no cost. However, there is a wait due to demand.
"The (Niagara County Community College) site that the state is running is free of charge," Niagara County Public Health Director Dan Stapleton said. "That's open seven days a week. It's done right in the vehicle and nobody has to step outside their vehicle."
Details about scheduling a test in Niagara County can be found here. Stapleton said Tuesday there is a two-day wait for those wanting to get a test. After tests are conducted, results are expected between four and seven days.
In Erie County, diagnostic tests are free, though only people who are under quarantine or who are symptomatic are eligible to receive a test. A spokeswoman for the ECDOH said the county has conducted roughly 1,500 tests each week. More details on test scheduling and testing sites in Erie County can be found here
Health officials urge the public to contact your healthcare providers for additional guidance.
NYSDOH will conduct a test if it's ordered by a health care provider or if you call their COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065.
WNY Insurers role in payment
Three of the largest health insurance networks locally provide coverage for coronavirus tests.
Independent Health will cover a test that is ordered by a health care provider, but testing is not covered if it is required by the government to determine community spread, by an employers for return-to-work or weekly testing, or for school or camp purposes.
BlueCross BlueShield will waive costs for COVID-19 for members who get a prescription from a doctor and meet the NYSDOH guidelines.
They will not cover a test that does not meet the criteria.
Univera Healthcare members do not have to pay for a test if there is a doctor's prescription for the test. Members are not covered if the test is for pandemic control or re-opening the economy.
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