COVID Update: Testing and Planning

Hello, 

As we approach the next phase of our COVID-19 plan on the Boston campus, I am writing to provide the following reminders: 

Testing

Beginning Monday, May 16, the College will change its testing strategy from required weekly surveillance testing to symptomatic testing for students only, which means testing is only required for students if they experience COVID-like symptoms. Asymptomatic individuals are welcome to test themselves for COVID-19 using their own self-administered rapid antigen tests. The Center for Health and Wellness will focus on serving students with more acute symptoms and to provide further testing recommendations.

Employees and faculty who experience symptoms should consult with their primary care providers about testing or if they are concerned that they may have contracted COVID-19.

Note: The last day of testing at 116 Harrison Ave will be Friday, May 13,(4:30pm). 

Rapid Testing: 

As a reminder, all individuals can order four FREE Tests from the federal government delivered through the US Postal Service by using the following link:  https://special.usps.com/testkits. (You can place a new order now, even if you’ve already received four tests.)

Also, for all employees enrolled in an Emerson health insurance plan, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care (HPHC) will continue to reimburse up to eight at-home authorized COVID-19 testing kits per month, per covered member, up to $12 per test.  You will need to pay for the tests and seek reimbursement from HPHC using their form.  The form includes instructions on how to submit for reimbursement, including what tests are considered authorized, how you need to submit and where to mail the form.  Be sure to keep your receipts! If you have questions about the Harvard Pilgrim reimbursement eligibility or process, please contact HPHC Member Services at (888) 333-4742.

We will keep you updated on any changes to the coverage and reimbursement process for COVID-19 at-home testing kits as they become available.

As always, we will continue to work with our medical partners at Tufts Medical Center throughout the summer and adjust plans accordingly, if necessary. 

Thank you again for your cooperation, understanding and partnership this past year. 

Be well, 
Erik Muurisepp