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COVID-19 Resources, Vaccines, and At-Home Tests

Our COVID-19 resources and frequently asked questions help you find answers about your care and coverage, vaccinations, testing options, and more.

Important COVID-19 At-Home Testing Update

Starting December 15, 2022, every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests at covidtest.gov.

In addition, your Cigna plan also covers eight individual over-the-counter COVID-19 tests per month for each person enrolled in the plan. The limit of eight does not apply if tests are ordered or administered by a health care provider following a clinical assessment.

You can also check your state’s department of health website to see if additional tests are offered free of charge.

For more information about over-the-counter tests, including information for Medicare Advantage customers, read our Frequently Asked Questions below.

COVID-19 Variants

Find up-to-date information on COVID-19 variants.
Learn More

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Test Kit Information for Cigna Customers (Cigna Medicare Customers see below)

Has the FDA updated expiration dates for COVID-19 at-home tests?

Yes. The FDA has a list of extended expiration dates on its website.

Are OTC COVID-19 tests covered by Cigna? How can I submit for reimbursement?

Effective January 15, 2022 and through the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) period, OTC tests that are approved under the FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) in vitro diagnostics will be covered at $0 cost to the customer, without a health care provider order or individualized clinical assessment. If you purchase an over-the-counter COVID-19 test from a pharmacy, store, or online retailer and are charged for your test, keep your receipt and submit a claim to Cigna for reimbursement. You will be reimbursed the costs of diagnostic OTC testing, regardless of where the tests are obtained (in- or out-of-network). Your plan can provide this coverage through reimbursement to you. Your plan can require you to sign an attestation that the test:

  • Was purchased for the covered individual;
  • Is not for employment purposes;
  • Has not and will not be reimbursed by another source, and
  • Is not for resale.

Your plan may require reasonable documentation of proof of purchase with a claim for reimbursement for the cost of an OTC COVID-19 test. Examples of such documentation could include the UPC code for the OTC COVID-19 test and/or a receipt from the seller of the test, documenting the date of purchase and the price of the OTC COVID-19 test.

You can now submit a COVID-19 test kit claim form online for tests purchased on or after January 15, 2022. Submit a claim online

Or, download the COVID-19 Over-the-Counter (OTC) Test Kit Claim Form [PDF] and submit via mail or fax using the instructions on the form.*

What kinds of over-the-counter (OTC) tests does my plan cover?

Your plan covers tests that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorizes. Visit the FDA website for a list of authorized tests.

Tests you purchase on or after January 15, 2022 are eligible for reimbursement. However, the following are not reimbursable under this program:

  • The BinaxNOWTM test with “Telehealth Proctor Supervised” in the attributes column

  • The Cue+ EssentialTM membership
  • The Cue Reader
How many OTC tests are covered by Cigna?

Your plan may limit the number of tests reimbursed to no less than eight OTC COVID-19 tests per covered individual per 30-day period (or per calendar month). In applying the quantity limit of eight, plans and issuers may count each test separately, even if multiple tests are sold in one package.

This limit only applies to OTC COVID-19 tests purchased and administered at home without the involvement of a health care provider. This means your health plan must still cover other kinds of COVID-19 tests ordered or administered by a health care provider. Those tests don’t count toward the eight quantity limit.

How can I get OTC test kits if I am enrolled in a Cigna + Oscar plan?

Oscar + Cigna customers can visit the Oscar website for more information about obtaining OTC test kits.

Other COVID-related Information for All Cigna Customers

What is the difference between a COVID-19 OTC test and a test processed in a laboratory?

Tests for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) are approved for home use under FDA in vitro diagnostics emergency use authorization, or antigen tests. Antigen tests detect the presence of specific virus proteins present on the sample swabbed from your body. Though rapid (results in 10-15 minutes) and convenient, they are not as good at detecting the virus as the type of test performed in a laboratory (known as nucleic acid amplification testing or NAAT), which is extremely sensitive.

An antigen test is most likely to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus when taken soon after symptoms develop (or 5 days after a known exposure without symptoms). A negative self-test result means that the test did not detect the virus and you may not have an infection, but it does not rule out infection, especially if you have symptoms. Repeating the test within a few days, with at least 24 hours between tests, will increase the confidence that you are not infected.

Regardless of which test is performed, if your result is positive you should follow CDC guidance on COVID-19 quarantine and isolation.

What is the Test-to-Treat initiative?

The Test-to-Treat initiative is part of President Biden’s National COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. Through this program, there are hundreds of “one stop test-and-treat” locations nationwide. Those who test positive for COVID-19 at one of those locations may also get a prescription filled for oral antivirals, if appropriate. You can search for test-to-treat locations near you using the U.S. Department of Health & Human services’ website locator.

Please see the Care and Coverage section below for coverage information about testing, diagnosis and treatment options.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Test Kit Information for Cigna Medicare Customers

Are OTC COVID-19 tests covered by Cigna Medicare? How can I get OTC test kits for free?

Cigna Medicare Advantage plans currently do not pay for or reimburse your costs for the purchase of at-home COVID-19 tests. If you purchase at-home test kits on your own, your plan will not reimburse you for the cost.

However, Medicare beneficiaries can get up to 8 tests per month from participating pharmacies and health care providers: National pharmacy chains are participating in this initiative. For more information and to get a list of eligible pharmacies and other health care providers that have committed publicly to participate in this initiative, visit the Medicare & Coronavirus page

Does my Cigna Medicare Advantage Plan cover the cost of a test done by my doctor or other health care provider?

Cigna Medicare Advantage plans fully cover the costs of COVID-19 tests done in a clinical setting, through the end of the declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) period. That means your Cigna Medicare plan covers COVID-19 testing without any out-of-pocket costs when it’s ordered by your doctor or done in an approved facility. To find a community-based testing site near you, visit HHS.gov.

Are OTC COVID-19 tests covered by Cigna Medicare? Can I submit for reimbursement? What tests can I get for no cost?

Cigna Medicare Advantage plans currently do not pay for or reimburse your costs for the purchase of at-home COVID-19 tests. However, you do currently have these other options for COVID-19 testing:

  • Visit HHS.gov to find a community-based testing site near you
  • Purchase at-home test kits on your own

Through the end of the declared Public Health Emergency (PHE) period, Cigna Medicare Advantage plans fully cover the costs of COVID-19 tests done in a clinical setting. That means your Cigna Medicare plan covers COVID-19 testing without any out-of-pocket costs when it’s ordered by your doctor or done in an approved facility.

In addition, on January 14, 2022, the White House announced a plan to ship up to four rapid COVID-19 tests to residential households for free. Since January 19, you can order the tests online at COVIDtests.gov. The tests are expected to ship 7 – 12 days from the order date. If you have trouble going online or need help placing an order, call . Help is available in English, Spanish, and more than 150 other languages. And this call line is open 8 am until midnight Eastern Time, 7 days a week. If you’re hearing impaired, you can use their TTY line, .

Also, on February 3, 2022, CMS announced a new initiative for free over-the-counter COVID-19 tests. Starting in early spring, anyone with Medicare Part B will be able to get up to eight free over-the-counter COVID-19 tests per month, whether enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or not. The tests will be available through eligible pharmacies and other participating entities. This policy will apply to COVID-19 over-the-counter tests that are approved or authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). And Medicare will pay the eligible pharmacies and entities directly.

Be a Community of Immunity

Start building your own Community of Immunity by getting your vaccine.

Since vaccine guidelines and requirements can vary by state and county, we can help you find the latest information and resources for your state.

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Cigna covers the cost of administering FDA-approved and FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines at 100% without any out-of-pocket costs when performed by an in-network or out-of-network provider.1

Mental and Emotional Health Resources

If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other issues, we're here for you.

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COVID-19 Vaccine Facts

Watch Dr. Neema Stephens, National Medical Director at Cigna, share facts about vaccine safety and development.

The Safety of the Vaccines

How the Vaccines Were Tested

How the Vaccines Work and Help

Should You Get the Vaccine?

Vaccine Facts vs. Fiction

Why our National Medical Directors Got Vaccinated

Neema Stephens, MD
National Medical Director for Health Equity
Cigna

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Vaccines

How important is it to get vaccinated?

It is incredibly important for everyone 5 years and older to get vaccinated. Getting vaccinated will help our country, communities, and families to end this pandemic and bring life back to normal.

Getting vaccinated also helps prevent serious illness for those who become infected with COVID-19. Until there is a large enough portion of the population vaccinated, COVID-19 will continue to spread and variants will develop.

Who is eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine and how can I find a vaccination location?

Everyone five years of age and older is eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccination.

There are several ways to find a vaccination location near you:

  • Visit Vaccines.gov
  • Text your zip code to 438829 or call 
  • Check your local pharmacy’s website for available appointments
  • Find pharmacies participating in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program
  • Contact your state health department

Note in some states, information may be limited while more vaccination providers and pharmacies are being added.

Learn more at Vaccines.gov

What vaccines are available and who can receive them?

There are three vaccines available in the U.S. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is FDA-authorized for ages 5-15 and FDA approved for ages 16 and older. The Moderna® and Johnson & Johnson® vaccines are FDA-authorized for ages 18 and older.

Do I need a booster shot?

Yes. Studies show after getting vaccinated against COVID-19, protection decreases over time. The recent emergence of the Omicron variant further increases the importance of vaccination and boosters to protect against COVID-19.

Everyone ages 12 and older can now get the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine booster shot. Individuals can receive the Pfizer-BioNTech booster at least 5 months after completing the primary COVID-19 vaccination series.

A third primary series dose for certain immunocompromised children ages 5 through 11. Children 5 through 11 years of age who have undergone solid organ transplantation, or who have been diagnosed with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise, may not respond adequately to the two-dose primary vaccination series. Thus, a third primary series dose has now been authorized for this group. This will now allow these children to receive the maximum potential benefit from vaccination.

Children 5 through 11 years of age who are fully vaccinated and are not immunocompromised do not need a third dose at this time.

It’s now recommended that you get your booster shot five months after your last shot if you got the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, six months later if you got the Moderna vaccine, and two months later if you got the Johnson and Johnson/Janssen vaccine.

For detailed information about COVID-19 booster shots, visit the FDA website.

Which of the vaccines should I get for my booster shot?

It is your preference. The CDC recommendations now allow for mix and match dosing for booster shots. You can get a booster of the vaccine that you originally received, or you can get a different vaccine type for your booster.

For the latest recommendations on eligibility of booster shots, including recommendations for the general population, refer to COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots | CDC or talk to your health care provider.

Can children under 12 years old get a vaccine?

Yes, as of October 29, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children five through 11 years of age.

  • The vaccine was found to be 90.7% effective in preventing COVID-19 in children five through 11 years of age.
  • Safety: The vaccine’s safety was studied in approximately 3,100 children age five through 11 years who received the vaccine. No serious side effects have been detected in the ongoing study.

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children five through 11 years of age is administered as a two-dose primary series, three weeks apart, but is a lower dose (10 micrograms) than that used for individuals 12 years of age and older (30 micrograms).

If you are a parent or guardian with questions about the vaccine, we encourage you to talk with your child’s health care provider.

For more information you can read:

  • The FDA decision to authorize the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year olds
  • CDC Recommends Vaccine for Kids ages 5-11
How do I know the COVID-19 vaccine is both safe and effective?

Cigna looks to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and input from the  Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to determine these factors.

There are three COVID-19 vaccines available. Are some more effective than others?

It has been shown that all three COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States are highly effective at preventing COVID-19.

To learn more about the vaccines, visit:

Different COVID-19 Vaccines | CDC

Vaccines | FDA

Should I get both a COVID-19 and a flu shot?

The best way to protect against influenza (flu) and COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. The flu and COVID-19 are contagious respiratory diseases that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization, or even death. We encourage everyone to talk with their health care provider about getting the COVID-19 and the flu shot. You can get both shots at the same time.

COVID-19 and flu vaccinations are safe and effective and may help avoid serious complications and hospitalization.

If I already had COVID-19 but have not been vaccinated, do I still need to get vaccinated?

Yes, you should be vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19 because:

  • Research has not yet shown how long you are protected from getting COVID-19 again after you recover from COVID-19.
  • Vaccination helps protect you even if you’ve already had COVID-19.

Care and Coverage

What should I do if I think I have COVID-19?

Contact your Primary Care Provider (PCP) and ask if they are offering virtual care (telehealth) visits over the phone or through video. They will advise you on how best to get care, if necessary.

If you do not have a PCP, you can search for a provider on myCigna.com.

The CDC also has a COVID-19 self-checker tool to determine if you are at risk for COVID-19.

Am I covered if my family or I get COVID-19?

Yes. Your plan will cover diagnosis, testing, and treatment associated with COVID-19, including:

  • COVID-19 diagnostic visits: Cigna is waiving out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 diagnostic visits with in-network and out-of-network providers, whether at a provider’s office, urgent care center, emergency room, or via virtual care, through the Public Health Emergency (PHE) period.*
  • COVID-19 diagnostic testing: Cigna is waiving out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 FDA-approved testing through the Public Health Emergency (PHE) period. Get more information on how to get tested at a center or at home [PDF].
  • If you have gone out-of-network and received an unexpected bill for a COVID-19 diagnostic visit or test, Cigna's COVID-19 Customer Protection Program (CPP) can help. This COVID-19 assistance program helps resolve billing issues and is provided at no additional cost for eligible customers.2 Call the phone number on your ID card and an advocate will help you.
  • COVID-19 treatment: Cigna covers medical care for COVID-19 treatment subject to standard cost share, copay, and deductibles. Cigna covers the administration of all FDA emergency use approved (EUA) COVID-19 infusions consistent with EUA Guidelines and Cigna’s COVID-19 Drug and Biologic Therapeutics coverage policy [PDF].

*Diagnostic tests are covered for individuals with symptoms of a COVID-19 infection or who had exposure to someone with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, as well as for individuals before an elective hospital admission or procedure. Non-diagnostic and antibody tests are not covered by Cigna's standard coverage, but may be covered as required by state law.

Am I covered if my family or I get tested because we are returning to work?

Check with your employee benefits administrator or human resources department. Many Cigna health plans do not cover testing for employment, travel, or school reasons.

Cigna does cover testing for diagnostic purposes when submitted by a laboratory and will waive cost-share for these tests through the end of the PHE period. Diagnostic purpose tests are those needed to make a diagnosis and manage your health and treatment plan.

Are there medications available to treat COVID-19?

Yes. In late December 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two oral prescription medications for the treatment of coronavirus disease (COVID-19): PAXLOVIDTM (from Pfizer) and molnupiravir (from Merck).3 These medications can help lessen the virus’ effects and lower the risk of hospitalization. If your doctor thinks PAXLOVID or molnupiravir is right for you, you should take it as soon as you develop symptoms and test positive for COVID-19. Learn more about how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 [PDF]

Are these COVID-19 medications available through my plan?

Yes. PAXLOVID and molnupiravir are available on Cigna’s prescription drug list as preferred brand medications.4 If you or a covered family member get a prescription for PAXLOVID or molnupiravir, you can fill it at any pharmacy (in- or out-of-network) that has it available. Or, you can get the medication directly from your doctor’s office (if they have it). Learn more about how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 [PDF]

How can I avoid future surprise medical bills and costs for COVID-19 care?

If you are in a position where you can choose your healthcare provider (e.g. non-emergency), we recommend using the provider directory available on myCigna.com or the myCigna® mobile app to find an in-network provider. You can also call the phone number on your ID card to find in-network health care providers to eliminate any risk your provider may choose to bill above these rates.

What should I do if I am still having symptoms?

Some people suffer from ongoing or new symptoms after a diagnosis of COVID-19. Recovery could take as long as or longer than three months. It is important to see your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to discuss ongoing COVID-19 symptoms and an appropriate treatment plan. If you don’t have a PCP, log in to myCigna and use the provider directory to find an in-network provider. For more information, visit Post-COVID Conditions | CDC

What follow up is needed after I recover from COVID-19?

After you recover from COVID-19 and/or return home from a hospitalization, your PCP can determine the best treatment plan, including assessing any follow care needed. Continue to take ensure you are up to date with preventative care screenings.

What is monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19?

The FDA recently authorized the monoclonal antibody therapy, REGEN-COVTM, for emergency use as post-exposure prevention of COVID-19 for those 12 years of age and older weighing at least 88 pounds who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, including hospitalization or death.

REGEN-COV also remains authorized for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 for those who are at high-risk for progression to severe COVID-19. Your PCP is the best person to discuss whether this therapy is appropriate for you.

Where can I receive monoclonal antibody therapy?

To find locations that may be able to provide monoclonal antibody therapeutic treatments visit:

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) outpatient antibody treatment locator tool

The National Infusion Center AssociationSM

Coronavirus Resources from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Coronavirus Symptoms Frequently Asked Questions Basic Protective Measures Travel Guidelines

1 For customers in the United States who are covered under Cigna's employer/union sponsored insured group health plans, insured plans for US based globally mobile individuals, Medicare Advantage and Individual and Family Plans (IFP). Cigna will also administer this policy for self-insured employer-sponsored or group health plans, unless your employer or plan sponsor has elected to opt out of this policy. Out-of-pocket costs include any applicable copayments, coinsurance, and deductible payments due under the terms of your plan. The treatments that Cigna will cover for COVID-19 are those covered under Medicare or other applicable state regulations.

2 The COVID-19 Customer Protection Program applies to customers in the United States who are covered under Cigna’s employer/union sponsored insured group health plans, insured plans for US based globally mobile individuals, Medicare Advantage and Individual and Family Plans (IFP). Cigna will also administer the waiver to self-insured group health plans and the company encourages widespread participation, although these plans will have an opportunity to opt-out of the waiver option. If your employer has opted out of the waiver option you may still receive a bill. However, Cigna will work with you to ensure the bill is fair.

3 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: December 23, 2021, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), December 2021, https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-december-23-2021. The FDA has given approval (known as “emergency use authorization”) to use PAXLOVID and molnupiravir to treat COVID-19.

4 The federal government is currently ordering and distributing PAXLOVID and molnupiravir at no cost. If prescribed, you may have to pay a small dispensing fee at the pharmacy (where available), but you won’t pay more than $6 out-of-pocket. It is anticipated this government program will remain in effect through the end of the Public Health Emergency. But when it ends, these medications will be covered consistent with the terms of your benefit plan.

Cigna employs 7000 clinicians, including pharmacists, medical and behavioral physicians, nurses, coaches, and advisors based on internal HR data as of March 31, 2020.


This content is offered for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor for appropriate medical advice and care recommendations tailored to your specific medical condition.


All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation. The Cigna name, logos, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. Cigna contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plans and Part D Prescription Drug Plans (PDP) in select states, and with select State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in Cigna depends on contract renewal.

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© 2022 Cigna. Some content may be provided under license.

The Safety of the Vaccines

How the Vaccines Were Tested

How the Vaccines Work and Help

Should You Get the Vaccine?

Vaccine Facts vs. Fiction

Why our National Medical Directors Got Vaccinated

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Individual and family medical and dental insurance plans are insured by Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company (CHLIC), Cigna HealthCare of Arizona, Inc., Cigna HealthCare of Illinois, Inc., Cigna HealthCare of Georgia, Inc., Cigna HealthCare of North Carolina, Inc., Cigna HealthCare of South Carolina, Inc., and Cigna HealthCare of Texas, Inc. Group health insurance and health benefit plans are insured or administered by CHLIC, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company (CGLIC), or their affiliates (see a listing of the legal entities that insure or administer group HMO, dental HMO, and other products or services in your state). Accidental Injury, Critical Illness, and Hospital Care plans or insurance policies are distributed exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, are administered by Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, and are insured by either (i) Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company (Bloomfield, CT); (ii) Life Insurance Company of North America (“LINA”) (Philadelphia, PA); or (iii) New York Life Group Insurance Company of NY (“NYLGICNY”) (New York, NY), formerly known as Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York. The Cigna name, logo, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. LINA and NYLGICNY are not affiliates of Cigna.

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