Frequently asked questions (FAQs): at-home test kit screenings

The FAQs on this page apply to the at-home preventive health screening kits distributed to Medicare Advantage members by Humana, in coordination with our vendors, as a way to help members manage their health. The questions do not apply to test kits ordered by a member’s personal physician, which are generally covered under the member’s health benefit plan, or alternate test kits ordered by members outside of this program. For information about health plan coverage for at-home testing, please call the number on the back of your Humana ID card.

What are at-home test kits?

At-home test kits are an easy way for Humana Medicare Advantage members to keep up-to-date on their health screenings from the convenience of their homes. You may have seen TV commercials for similar offerings.

Here’s how they work:

1. Member orders a kit, or a kit is directly provided to member as a way to help manage their health
2. Humana’s test kit vendor sends kit to member’s home
3. Member follows the instructions inside the kit and collects sample
4. Member mails sample to the lab using the prepaid envelope included in the kit
5. Member and doctor are notified of test results around 3 weeks later

What type of test kits does Humana offer?

Humana offers 3 at-home test kits to our eligible members:

1. A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) that collects a stool sample to screen for colorectal cancer
2. An A1c test that collects a blood sample to check average blood glucose levels from the past 2–3 months
3. A kidney test kit that collects a urine sample to check kidney health and screen for kidney disease 

Who is eligible for an at-home test kit from Humana?

Medicare Advantage members who are missing colon cancer and/or diabetes-related screenings are generally eligible for test kit screenings, but there are some exceptions. For example, it’s recommended that members with previous abnormal results for health screenings connect with their doctor in person for clinical follow-up.

For each eligible screening type, members can receive 1 at-home test kit per calendar year.

Who does Humana work with to send at-home test kits?

Humana works with Everlywell™ to provide at-home preventive health screening kits to our eligible members. Our test kit vendor may contact you to gather information for sample processing and to update you on your kit status.

Everlywell is a trusted vendor who specializes in providing various health screenings.

Why should I complete an at-home test kit?

Health screenings such as test kits use modern medical technology to identify potential problems before you may have symptoms.¹ Below is more information about the importance of keeping up-to-date on your health screenings.

Colon cancer screening: People with average risk for colon cancer should begin regular screenings at age 45 and continue until 75, according to the American Cancer Society^®.² Screenings can help detect colon cancer early—when it may be easier to treat.³ Talk to your doctor to determine your personal level of risk.

A1c test: The A1c test is used to monitor how well your diabetes treatment is working over time. It measures your average blood sugar levels from the previous 2–3 months, which shows your doctor how well your blood sugar is being controlled.

Kidney health screening: A kidney health screening includes both a blood and urine test to check your kidney health and screen for kidney disease. Nearly 90% of people of adults with kidney disease don’t know they have it. That’s why it’s important to complete both tests to get a clear picture of your kidney health.⁴

What will the at-home test kit cost me?

Good news! At-home test kits provided through your Humana health plan do not cost you extra. For eligible members, the test kit, return postage and sample processing are all paid for by Humana.

What are my other screening options?

Various screening options exist for both colon cancer and diabetes management. You may want to consider an in-person screening such as a colonoscopy. Talk to your doctor about which type of screening is best for you.

Who gets access to my test results?

Your sample will be mailed back to the lab using the prepaid envelope included in the kit. Once processed, your results will be securely mailed to you. A copy will also be mailed to your doctor if we have one on file for you. Humana will update your records with your test results. You can also view and download results online when you set up your account at humana.everlywell.com.

I didn’t request a test kit. Why did Humana send one to me?

If you received a test kit, but didn’t request one, that means our records indicate that you may be due for a screening. Every year, thousands of Humana members rely on this convenient form of screening. We want you to have the same opportunity to get the screenings you need.

I don’t want to use the at-home test kit. What should I do with it?

If you prefer not to complete this kit and would like to be screened another way, simply dispose of the kit. The kit is designated especially for you and shouldn’t be used by another person. What matters is that you are staying updated on your screenings, regardless of the method.

What do I need to know about my test kit?

• Be sure to read the instructions, as they will guide you through the sample collection and mailing process.
• Fill out the collection card included in your kit—the lab can’t process your sample without it. Be sure to write your name as it appears on your Humana ID card.
• Return your sample in the prepaid envelope—just drop it in any U.S. Postal Service mailbox.
• Your sample is time-sensitive. Please mail it as soon as possible after you collect it.

Who should I contact if I have questions about my test kit?

Contact Everlywell if you have questions about your kit. Members can call 855-923-2678 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Eastern time, or email at humana@everlywell.com. If you received a test kit from Everlywell, you can also set up an account at everlywell.com/humana.