(WTAQ-WLUK) — After more than three years, Wisconsin health officials are making plans to move away from its emergency COVID-19 response.
The federal government announced the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency will end May 11.
The health emergency, which was first put in place in early 2020, gave federal and state governments flexibility to waive or modify certain requirements in a variety of areas. It also produced additional funding and flexibilities to help combat the virus.
In Wisconsin, COVID-19 case numbers, hospitalizations, and deaths are significantly lower than they were during the surge in late 2021 and early 2022.
“The declaration of a public health emergency helped support Wisconsin’s efforts to combat COVID-19 with resources that saved lives statewide,” said DHS Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson. “As the federal public health emergency declaration nears its end, DHS will continue to shift our COVID-19 response operations. However, it is critical that Wisconsinites know this does not mean COVID-19 has gone away. The virus remains a threat to health, and we must continue to care for ourselves and each other.”
The Department of Health says it will continue to collect and monitor COVID-19 data, while focusing on prevention and precaution as response programs transition.
Some things will change, however.
COVID-19 vaccines will still be available free of charge until the federally purchased supply is depleted. Once the supply is gone, those with public or private insurance will be able to access COVID-19 vaccines. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services will continue to provide COVID-19 vaccines for millions of Americans who are uninsured at no cost through its Bridge Access Program.
- Click here to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine near you
Testing may no longer be free after the public health emergency ends. At-home tests will likely become more costly for people, regardless of their insurance status, although some insurance plans may still cover them. They will likely still be available for purchase at retail outlets and pharmacies. Those covered by Medicaid will be able to access free at-home tests through September 2024.
Some state programs will also wind down:
- The Say Yes! COVID Test direct-to-household antigen test distribution program has seen sustained demand and will remain available through May, while supplies last. Wisconsinites are encouraged to order before supplies run out and the program ends.
- The K-12 COVID-19 testing program has ended in-school testing. Schools may order at-home antigen tests to distribute to students, staff, and families until June 15.
- The Community Testing Support Program, the funding support for local pharmacies, local and tribal health departments, and other community locations, ended April 15.
- Testing support for confinement facilities will end April 30. Supplies for confinement facilities serving persons in our care, including unhoused facilities, will remain available until June 15.
- Access to laboratory-conducted (PCR) COVID-19 testing may be limited, and people may be charged, even if they have health insurance.
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