What to do in the U.S. if you get COVID-19 but no medical insurance?
CGTN
00:58

On Saturday the U.S. Congress passed an emergency relief package to help people economically fight COVID-19 and help contain the spread of the virus. 

The package will provide paid sick leave for some workers, provide free COVID-19 testing for everyone, funding for food security programs and for unemployment insurance. 

Although the emergency package includes free testing for everyone, how do you get tested when you don’t have health insurance?

Several U.S. states are now offering drive-thru testing but in the case of the New Rochelle testing center in New York, you need an appointment first. 

Most COVID-19 cases will be mild to moderate and treatable from home.

Doctors recommend treating it like the flu, staying hydrated, self-isolation, taking medicine when needed and monitoring your symptoms.

But if you have COVID-19 symptoms - and they aren’t getting any better - here are some ways you can manage the medical costs:

CALL FIRST: If you don’t have a primary doctor, call urgent care or a hospital. They can give advice on what to do next.

AVOID THE EMERGENCY ROOM: Don't got there unless absolutely necessary. ER bills are high! Visit a doctor, urgent care or a local clinic. They can help you get free testing if needed.

If symptoms worsen and require hospitalization, a patient could be charged between $75,000 and $100,000 for 10 days. That would include, the hospital stay, drugs and treatment. 

TRACK COSTS: If you are hospitalized, have a friend keep track of your treatment, medications and doctors. This might be helpful for the bill.