Private health insurance companies will soon be required to cover the cost of home COVID tests for people on their plans, according to the Associated Press. The federal government announced the changes on Monday as it tries to lower the costs of testing amid growing frustrations.

The AP reports that starting on Saturday insurance will cover the cost of up to eight home tests per month. The policy states that citizens will either be able to purchase home testing kits for free under their insurance plan, or submit their receipts for reimbursement. The AP gives the example of a family of four could be reimbursed for up to 32 tests per month. PCR and rapid tests that are ordered by healthcare providers are still free with no limits.

The current administration continues to work to make home testing more accessible and more affordable. The AP also reports that later this month the government will launch a website making 500 million at home COVID tests available via mail. The administration hopes that by easing the barrier to regular at-home testing, it can slow the spread of the virus and help keep kids in school and parents at work.

The AP reports that two main health insurance companies said that they would carry out the government's orders but cautioned that it won't be as easy as flipping a switch. Officials say there will likely be some hiccups in the early days, but they will work with the government to fix any issues. Only tests purchased on or after January 15th will be required to be reimbursed.

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