As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the Rio Grande Valley, people who suspect they may be sick are encouraged to get tested even if they’re uninsured.

Federal funds are available to cover costs associated with COVID-19 care through the COVID-19 Claims Reimbursement to Health Care Providers and Facilities for Testing and Treatment of the Uninsured Program.

“I don’t think a lot of people know about it,” Mildred Garcia, a biller with Lone Star Billing, said. The program started in April, but billing processing started in May. Since then, they’ve only billed 10 patients through that program.

Testing continues to be in high demand.

About 140 people poured into the offices of Dr. Juan Aguilera and Associates on Tuesday. “It is a little pricey, but most insurances are covering it when you have symptoms or have been exposed,” Nancy Aguilera, a physician’s assistant, said.

Rapid tests can cost about $80 and swab tests, also known as PCR exams, can run between $200-$300.

Most patients are insured, but the office is making use of the program. “We have a couple of uninsured patients who have already been tested. And, it’s completely covered,” Aguilera said.

To qualify, patients must be completely uninsured.

“Health care providers are not required to confirm immigration status prior to submitting claims for reimbursement,” according to the agency’s website.

Testing is only a part of what’s covered under the program.

“It does pay for hospitals, even any testing, any labs that are done with COVID-19, and they should be covered,” Garcia said.

Testing-related visits including to urgent care, emergency rooms, and telehealth could qualify. Treatments including inpatient/outpatient observation, skilled nursing facilities and durable medical equipment like oxygen and ventilators are also a part of the program’s eligible services. Once treatment is approved by the FDA and a vaccine is made available, those will be included, too.

A negative result for the virus will still be covered.

Garcia urges those who may qualify to make use of the program.

“Once the funds are over, that’s when they’ll stop,” Garcia said.

So far, about $177 billion was invested into the program.

For more information, visit the Health Resources and Service Administration website.