President, HHS Roll Out Rapid Testing for Home Care

Earlier this week, President Trump announced that HHS is releasing 150 million rapid-response COVID-19 tests. Of the 150 million, 10 million will be distributed to home, health, and hospice care agencies, which includes home care agencies.

“One thing to be wary of is that 100 million tests are going to go very quickly,” said Steven C. Fox, DO, member of the HCAOA Medical Advisory Council. “The amount that actually funnel down to home care agencies could be very small.”
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“We are thrilled that home care agencies have been recognized for this testing,” said HCAOA’s Executive Director Vicki Hoak.  “This is another indication that home care’s value in the health care delivery system of this country is being recognized.”

The tests can be administered by caregivers and are comprised of a nasal swab and testing card. The tests are also often paired with Abbott’s NAVICA App, which allows people with recent negative tests to share their results at places that require frequent testing for access. More information on this distribution will be provided in the coming days.  HCAOA has a meeting with HHS officials later today.