Now, hundreds of millions of tests later, Channel 2 Investigates discovered doctors gouging patients and insurance companies for tests that are supposed to be free. Kurian’s explanation of benefits showed the River Oaks Emergency Room charged her insurance company $8900 each for her and her husband. “They said, ‘Well, you talked to a doctor over the phone when you got here that asked you questions.’”Who is paying these high COVID test bills? “I’m wondering if you can explain why you would charge almost $9,000 for a covid test,” said reporter Amy Davis. Free testing is availableThere are plenty of free COVID testing sites available all over the greater Houston area.