The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has revised its provider letter (PL 2020-49) to expand the availability of free BinaxNOW COVID-19 point of care (POC) antigen test kits for long-term care providers. These test kits can now be used to test any individuals, including residents, staff, and visitors. To request the free test kits, providers such as nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities, home and community-based services program providers, and home and community support services agencies must complete the Attestation for Free Test Kits (LTCR Form 2198). Providers are eligible to request the test kits if they have a current Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver or a CLIA laboratory certificate, administer the test only by trained staff, follow all reporting requirements, and report test results appropriately. Providers must report all test results (positive, negative, or indeterminate) for each tested individual. The free test kits will be available until supplies are exhausted.

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