COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Over-The-Counter Test Kits Information

In conjunction with vaccination and other measures, self-testing can help reduce the chance of spreading COVID-19

• Over-the-counter tests do not require a provider and can be administered at-home, with or without symptoms
  

Pennsylvanians can obtain over-the-counter rapid tests via publicly accessible channels:

• At a community health center or rural health clinic: residents can learn more and find locations here
• From a retail store or pharmacy where many over-the-counter tests are free or reimbursable under insurance
• Via programs set up by a local county or municipal health department: residents should check what testing resources their local health departments may provide
  

In addition, specific populations can also access tests via DOH's other programs or connections with federal programs:

• K-12 schools: DOH has partnered with Ginkgo to offer staffing and supplies for free PCR and rapid antigen testing, in addition to tests
  
• Long-term care facilities: In addition to supplies offered by the federal government, DOH is continuing distributions of rapid antigen test kits to facilities with CLIA certificates
  

In parallel, DOH is providing a limited number of at-home tests for distribution to the public via AMI testing sites as well as state health centers and other community partners:

• These resources are intended for Pennsylvania's high-need populations with otherwise limited access to testing – residents who can access publicly available resources should seek those to the extent that they are able to
• Please contact your local state health center for up to date test kit pick up times
• Test distributions will be limited per-person; pick-up locations and times can be found below
  

Test information:

• Tests have received Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA
• Tests are approved for at-home use and do not require a medical provider to oversee use
• Tests are approved for individuals two and older; tests can be self-collected by an individual aged 14 years and older, children aged 2-13 years should be tested by an adult
• Tests provide results in about 15 minutes
  

Pickup information:

• Test kits are available on a first-come, first-serve basis at several state health centers. 
  
• Tests are free to all individuals
• Individuals are not required to show symptoms of COVID-19 in order to pick up a test kit
• Individuals are limited to picking up a maximum of 4 tests to ensure equitable distribution across the Commonwealth
  
• To find the location and pick up times in your area, please call the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258)