A total of $4.8 billion is being earmarked nationwide for COVID testing for the uninsured, HHS and the Health Resources and Services Administration announced. The funding comes from the American Rescue Plan. With this funding, the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program seeks to remove cost impediments among the nation’s 29 million uninsured individuals to promote access to appropriate testing and care.

“As we vaccinate the country, let’s continue taking the preventive measures necessary to keep the virus under control and prevent it from spreading. Testing remains critical and now it’s available at no cost to those who need it,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.