This post could contain affiliate links. Please see our advertiser disclosure to learn more.How to Take a BinaxNow COVID-19 Home Test for US ReentryYou're probably like me and want to travel again internationally. You do your research on how to get into the destination you are interested in and how to reenter the US. This is where you will discover that almost everyone requires a minimum three-day maximum Covid test to reenter the US. Even if they are fully vaccinated (as at publication of this article).Further research reveals that a quick Covid test can be quite expensive. You might find it difficult to access depending on where you are located, or not available in remote areas. BinaxNow COVID-19 AG Card Home Test may be the right solution.This guest post is by Tim Greer, MtM Diamond Lounge. He went on a trip to Iceland about a week ago and wanted to share it with the world. Thank you so much Tim!A Brief Overview of What is Required & How It WorksThis is not a review, but rather a description of my experiences with the test. The test is not accurate and there are no links to the product.The test can be taken within three days if you are available (a Saturday departure will allow you to take it as early as Wednesday).Only external equipment is required: a smartphone or computer with an internet connection and a functioning camera.The official result is sent to Navica within 15 minutes.This test is only for returning to the US. It is not sufficient for entry into a foreign country. While you can research the entry requirements of each country, I wouldn't recommend this test.The ProcessOrder the kits online to receive them via FedEx. They will not workInstall the Navica() app for your smartphone and create an accountVideo monitored test Preparing for the testGet your result from Navica() and download it to your deviceFinal thoughtsYou can order the kits online and they will be delivered via FedExThe United Airlines link was the way I ordered the test. Abbott has a partnership agreement with multiple airlines. Here's the link to Abbott.Answer a series questions. I chose the answers that related to returning from an international trip, with the purpose of reentering America. Six tests cost $150 USD each. To ship the kits, a doctor must prescribe them. This happens on the same day. You can use your emailed receipt to reimburse Flexible Spending Account/Healthsavings Account. Please consult your FSA/HSA guidelines regarding reimbursement. I received reimbursement via my HSA account. The kits arrived the next day via FedEx.Install the Navica() app for your smartphone and create an accountThis step is best done before you leave your home, but it can be done while you are in your international destination. Your test results will be provided by the Navica app. Video interaction takes place on the eMed.com website (more details later).How to Take the Video Monitored ExamIt's time to complete the video-monitored exam via eMed.com. These screenshots were taken with a smartphone, but you can also use a desktop or laptop computer.Visit eMed.comClick on Start TestLogging in to Navica will prompt youPlease complete the questionnaireThe Guided Session will be initiated.1 of 3Guided SessionAn eMed employee will visit your computer (you won't see them, but he/she can see your camera). eMed will connect to your camera.Scan/provide the QR code from your Covid Test BoxYour ID (e.g. Passport, driver's license/ID issued by the stateWe will monitor your movements throughout the process1 of 5Preparing for the testYou will be asked to open different items in the box by an eMed representative. You willPlace the card on a flat surface.Place six drops of the solution in the small holePlace the swab in the large hole and repeat the process three timesTake a swab and wipe both nostrils. Repeat six timesPlace the swab in the flap, leaving the exposed end of the flap open.Close the cardGet your result from Navica() and download it to your deviceThe eMed representative will leave after closing the card. A 20-minute timer will then start. You can then get off your phone or computer. You can click on the button to allow another representative from eMed to see your result and review it. My result was back in 10 minutes, but it is possible to wait up to 20 minutes. Negative results should not be shown. Positive people will see two red lines (control or sample).An eMed representative will email you with your results to the Navica app. The official result is used to reenter America. The Newark Airport Immigration (EWR), although they did not ask me for my negative Covid result, I was required to show my negative result as well as my vaccination card to four people at Reykjavik Airport before I received my boarding pass.Last ThoughtsIt is an easy test that you can take. Other tests may be more costly, more difficult or less convenient depending on where you are traveling internationally.The test was done on a laptop equipped with an external camera. It was awkward at times as the eMed representative had to see every move you made during the process. It may be easier to use a smartphone.This antigen test is only for reentering the US, as I have stated before. This test can be used to enter other countries, but it is unlikely that the test meets all requirements.Enjoy international travel and a positive Covid test result.Tim, thank you for sharing this information! I can tell you that I would be much more comfortable going this route than finding a testing site.
