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Prescription Requirement for At-Home COVID-19 Test Kits Begins July 1, 2026

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Beginning July 1, 2026, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will require a prescription for dispensing at-home COVID-19 test kits through the outpatient drug benefit for people enrolled in Texas Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The change is due to the end of a federal regulation requiring coverage of at-home COVID-19 test kits and applies to fee-for-service and managed care coverage. There will be no change to the maximum limit of four test kits per month.

Refer to state law and regulation regarding standing orders and physician collaborative practice agreements.

Email vdp-policy@hhs.texas.gov with comments or questions.