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Test to Treat: How it Works

Information for Individuals and Families

The nation’s Test to Treat Program provides access to free, lifesaving COVID-19 medication.

Test positive for COVID-19? You can see a health care provider, get a prescription for COVID-19 treatment, and have that prescription filled– all in one stop, all in the same day.

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Step 1: Get Tested

Get tested for COVID-19 at a Test to Treat site. You can also take a home-test and bring it with you to your visit.

  • Use the Test to Treat locator to find a testing location near you.
  • You can call 800-232-0233 to get help in English, Español, and 150+ languages (8:00am to midnight Eastern, 7 days a week).
  • The Disability Information and Access (DIAL) line is available for people with all types of disabilities (9am-8pm Eastern, 7 days a week)

Search Testing Locations

Step 2: Get a Prescription

If you test positive for COVID-19, ask the on-site provider or pharmacist [double check if pharmacists can prescribe] if you are eligible for COVID-19 antiviral treatment.

  • Bring a list of any medications you are currently taking to your appointment.
  • Treatment for patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 reduces risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. 

COVID-19 treatment consists two antiviral pills:

Find a Test to Treat Provider

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Step 3: Get Treated

Ask the on-site pharmacist to fill your prescription, or ask the provider to send the prescription to a nearby pharmacy.

Once your prescription is filled, take your antivirals with you and start treatment.

Start treatment early! Be sure to take your antiviral medication within the first 5 days you feel sick.