Planning to travel outside the US this year? Not sure where to even start when it comes to Covid-19 travel restrictions? If you’re confused by the constantly changing regulations, you are definitely not alone.
One sneaky detail that’s tripping up a lot of American travelers these days is a US re-entry requirement that needs to be on your radar.
Per the CDC, “All air passengers 2 years or older with a flight departing to the US from a foreign country at or after 12:01am EST (5:01am GMT) on December 6, 2021, are required show a negative COVID-19 viral test result taken no more than 1 day before travel, or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days, before they board their flight.”
To further complicate matters, all travelers must provide the required documentation regardless of nationality or vaccination status and only certain tests can be used to meet the regulation requirements. Couple that with the fact that Covid-19 testing is not free in much of the world and you have a recipe for a logistical and costly nightmare.
While this restriction is causing many Americans to rethink their travel plans, it doesn’t have to stop you.
I recently stumbled upon an amazing travel hack that is too good not to share.
Local Atlanta physician, Dr. Patrice Harris, in collaboration with Covid-19 test manufacturer, Abbott, has found a creative way to tackle this challenging logistical problem. Travelers can purchase qualified at-home rapid tests through their website, eMed.com before their trip, video call with an eMed health care provider for the testing process while abroad, and get their results in as little as 15 minutes sent directly to your phone. Even better, the platform’s 24/7 access allows travelers to call in whenever it is convenient for them without having to factor in time zones, appointment times, or office visit fees.
Tests can be purchased on eMed.com, qured.com, and store.optum.com prior to travel. Each test costs approximately $25 per test and can be delivered in as little as 24 hours to your doorstep. Even better, the video consultation is included in the price and most testing is reimbursable through your health insurance provider.
eMed recommends travelers purchase two tests per traveler, register the test online before you leave, and ensure you have a stable internet connection and clear video where you’ll be traveling.
With almost immediate results, eMed is taking the challenge out of meeting the ever-changing regulations of this “new normal” we find ourselves in and we couldn’t be more grateful!