National public health emergency for COVID-19 is ending

More than 3 years after it began, the federal government will end the national COVID-19 public health emergency on May 11, 2023.

As a result, coverage of services related to COVID-19 that were established during the pandemic will change. However, Kaiser Permanente’s dedication to providing you with top-rated¹ care will remain the same.

 Here’s more information about what to expect when the public health emergency ends on May 11:

COVID-19 tests

 At-home PCR tests for COVID-19 will no longer be available and should not be mailed into or dropped off at our laboratories. Mailed at-home COVID-19 PCR test received after May 11^th will not be processed. COVID-19 PCR tests and treatment will be covered at your usual copay or coinsurance for laboratory testing. If you require a PCR test, please complete an E-visit on kp.org.

Coverage for COVID-19 home antigen tests coverage will also end. You may still order COVID-19 home antigen tests on kp.org for a fee. To order COVID-19 home antigen tests, go to kp.org and complete an E-visit.

COVID-19 vaccines

The COVID-19 vaccine will be covered at your usual copay or coinsurance, which typically is $0.

Care for COVID-19

 Any services related to COVID-19 (including testing, vaccinations, and care) you receive outside of Kaiser Permanente will only be covered in urgent or emergency care situations, or if your plan covers services received outside Kaiser Permanente.

¹ In the NCQA Commercial Health Plan Ratings 2022, our commercial plan is rated 5 out of 5, the highest rating in the nation.