In the February issue of the Insider, we covered a HUD and Department of Health and Human Services initiative to expand the available COVID-19 diagnostic testing supply for at-risk individuals. With this initiative, Section 202 elderly sites can order no-cost over the counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests on a weekly basis.
HUD has recently launched a dedicated HUD webpage for Section 202 Housing for the Elderly sites to find information on bulk ordering and place orders for the tests.
The context: Regular testing is an important part of mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and protecting those most vulnerable to serious infection, including older adults and people with disabilities. The tests allow individuals and families to test themselves in the privacy of their own homes. The tests help detect the virus during the early stages of infection and allow individuals act accordingly based on this information.
The program aims to promote community health and well-being by providing test kits to Section 202 providers that can be used to ensure residents, staff, and others are not infected with the virus or, if they are, to quickly identify, quarantine, and appropriately treat infected persons.
One level deeper: Here is some additional information on the online ordering system:
Once orders are successfully submitted, sites can expect deliveries within seven to 10 calendar days, and Section 202 sites will be able to track their orders through the HPOP system.