How to avoid extra COVID-19 testing charges

Oklahomans who want a test for COVID-19 can likely avoid unnecessary charges by taking a few steps first. If your doctor requests the test as medically necessary, you shouldn’t be charged for it. That’s federal law.

To reduce your chances of facing extra costs:

• Call your primary care doctor before getting tested. Get your doctor’s testing order and recommended testing site. The order makes the test possible at no cost to you.
• Ask the testing site if it has any charges or fees not covered by insurance.
• Do not authorize non-COVID tests at the same time unless your doctor orders them.
• Unless it’s a medical emergency, avoid hospital or free-standing emergency rooms, which usually charge more.
• If you aren’t paying with insurance, shop around on the web or by phone to compare testing charges and possible add-on fees.

If you get a bill related to a COVID test, call your health plan to find out why. If you can’t resolve the issue with your plan, call the OID at 1-800-522-0071.

If you believe you have been excessively charged, call the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office at 1-833-681-1895 or consumerprotection@oag.ok.gov. For more information on COVID testing in Oklahoma, visit the Oklahoma State Department of Health website. For testing sites, including free sites, visit Testing Sites Map.