How to Find Free COVID-19 Medication

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doctor and patient in masks
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People with COVID-19 can now get quick and free lifesaving treatment at testing sites nationwide.

A new federal program, called “Test to Treat,” first helps people get tested for COVID-19. For those who test positive, on-site health care providers can prescribe antiviral pills and immediately fill the prescription right there.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

“These ‘One-Stop Test to Treat’ sites are available at hundreds of locations nationwide, including pharmacy-based clinics, Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA)-supported federally-qualified health centers (FQHCs), and long-term care facilities.”

Prescriptions issued at the sites may be for either Pfizer’s Paxlovid or Merck’s Lagevrio.

These treatments, which currently are FDA-approved for emergency use, are pills that “can help prevent severe illness and hospitalization when taken within five days of first COVID-19 symptoms,” according to an HHS fact sheet.

To find a location for this free medication near you, visit the Test to Treat Locator webpage and enter your ZIP code or address. You can also call 1-800-232-0233 for help finding a location.