Humana, LabCorp Authorize At-Home COVID Testing

Humana is launching a pilot home-testing program for its members that will allow them to utilize LabCorp at-home test collection kits for COVID-19. The major insurer also announced a new collaboration with Quest Diagnostics and Walmart that will create drive-thru testing at hundreds of locations throughout the country.

“Our members continue to be worried about COVID-19—including the anxiety about possibly having it and not knowing it,” said Mona Siddiqui, Humana senior vice president of clinical strategy and quality, in a press release. “We want to help alleviate that stress. This is an additional step we can take to help address their concerns—whether testing from the safety of their own home or using the drive-thru option.”

Humana has been at the forefront of many initiatives throughout the pandemic, including waiving member costs related to COVID-19.

A coronavirus risk-assessment based on CDC guidelines is available on Humana’s member website.

For members whose symptoms make them eligible for testing, or members without symptoms who are at risk or were potentially exposed, Humana said in its press release it is committed to increasing access to testing by allowing them request in-home test kits or use the drive-thru at more than 100 Walmart Neighborhood Market locations.

The at-home test kits are physician-authorized, self-collect nasal swabs that received emergency use authorization from the FDA.

In addition to the drive-thru testing capability, Humana explained in its press release that it is currently exploring ways to provide transportation to the locations for members who may need assistance.

To mitigate risks to health care workers in the drive-thru testing locations, pharmacists will be behind the drive-thru window at all times, observing while patients are collecting samples, tests will be sealed in a container by the member and dropped in a sample box before leaving the drive-thru area. Quest Diagnostics will pick up the tests from the containers and no testing samples will enter the pharmacy.

 “We’re proud to team up with Humana and Walmart to make it convenient and easy for Humana members to get the critical COVID-19 testing services they need,” said Jay G. Wohlgemuth, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer, Quest Diagnostics. “Our lab insights will help foster safer and healthy environments as our nation begins to reopen our economy.” —Edan Stanley