Frequently asked questions: in-home test kit screenings

The FAQs on this page apply to in-home test kit screenings distributed to 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 in-home testing, please call the number on the back of your Humana ID card.

What are in-home test kits?

In-home test kits are an easy way for Humana members to keep up-to-date on their health screenings without leaving 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 partner sends kit to member’s home
3. Member opens kit; collects sample within home
4. Member mails in sample through a postage-paid envelope
5. Member and doctor are notified of test results around 3 weeks later

What type of test kits does Humana offer?

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

• A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) that collects a stool sample to screen for colon cancer (Medicare only)
• An A1c test that collects a blood sample to check average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months
• A microalbumin test that checks for protein in urine, which is an indicator of kidney health

Why should I complete an in-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 of 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 find 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, among other purposes, to monitor how well your diabetes treatment is working over time. It measures your average blood sugar levels over the previous 2–3 months, which lets your doctor know how well your blood sugar is being controlled.

Kidney test: People with diabetes should get regular screenings for kidney disease.⁴ The microalbumin test measures the amount of albumin, a protein, in your urine and compares it to the level of creatinine, a waste product. The ratio of albumin to creatinine lets your doctor know if your kidneys are functioning properly.⁵

What will the in-home test kit cost me?

Good news! In-home test kits provided to members through their Humana health plan do not cost members anything extra. The test kit, return postage and sample processing are covered by Humana.

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

Medicare 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 one in-home test kit per calendar year.

Am I eligible for an in-home test kit from Humana?

It’s easy to check. Medicare members can visit Humana.com and sign in to MyHumana. If you’re eligible for a test kit, you’ll see the test kit offer on your MyScreenings page. Just select the button to order your kit!

What are my other screening options?

Various screening options exist for both colon cancer and diabetes management. If you’re not eligible for an in-home test kit, be sure to check with your doctor. Talk to your doctor about which type of screening is best for you.

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

Humana works with Home Access and Everlywell to provide test kits to our eligible members. Our test kit vendors may contact you with test kit offers, to gather information for sample processing and to update you on your kit status.

Home Access and Everlywell are trusted vendors who specialize in providing various health screenings.

Who gets access to my test results?

Once complete, your sample will be mailed back to the vendor that shipped you the kit—either Home Access or Everlywell. Once processed, your results will be securely mailed to you. Humana will update your records with your test results and also mail a copy to your doctor, if we have one on file for you.

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 like yourself 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 in-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 in the trash. The kit is designated especially for you and shouldn’t be used by another person. What matters to us most 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, they will guide you through the sample collection and mailing process.
• Be sure to fill out the collection card included in your kit, as the lab can’t process your sample without it.
• 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 the collection date.

Who should I contact with questions about my test kit?

Contact our test kit vendors if you have questions about your kit. The name of either Home Access or Everlywell will be on the box that your kit is shipped in and on the letter within the kit.

• For Home Access kits – Call 1-800-442-5650 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., Eastern Time
• For Everlywell kits – Call 1-855-422-5751 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Eastern Time, or email humana@everlywell.com.