Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is calling for free at-home COVID-19 tests to be available to New Yorkers immediately amid concerns over the omicron variant.

President Joe Biden said that starting Jan. 15, insurance companies will cover the costs of testing kits - but Schumer says between now and then, something needs to be done.

He says he wants the at-home tests to be sent to New York community health centers and mobile sites so that anyone can walk into a health care center and get the at-home test for free.

He says the funds to pay for the tests have already been appropriated.

"A key to controlling omicron is the at-home test, where you can swab your own nose, follow simple steps, determine if you have COVID, and take the right steps thereafter," says Schumer.

Doctors recently told News 12 that at-home tests are typically recommended when it comes to routine screenings where someone wants a little peace of mind before leaving the house.

Currently, free at-home testing kit are only available in New Hampshire statewide and in select counties in Washington.