Texas Medicaid and CHIP to Require Prescriptions for At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Effective July 1, 2026, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will mandate prescriptions for at-home COVID-19 test kits for individuals enrolled in Texas Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This policy adjustment follows the expiration of a federal regulation that previously allowed coverage without a prescription. The existing monthly limit of four test kits per person will remain unchanged.