Since the program launched Jan. 19 — during the current omicron surge — the government has delivered hundreds of millions of at-home test kits. But with Congress-approved COVID-19 response budgets drying up, the offer is expected to end in a few days.
“Ordering through this program will be suspended on Friday, September 2 because Congress hasn’t provided additional funding to replenish the nation’s stockpile of tests,” the nation’s COVID-19 site reads.
A senior administration official told NBC News the remaining stockpile of tests could be reserved for late 2022 if Congress doesn’t funnel more money into the service.
“We have warned that congressional inaction would force unacceptable tradeoffs and harm our overall COVID-19 preparedness and response — and that the consequences would likely worsen over time,” the source told NBC News and CNN.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.