The reduction in where and how people can access free Covid-19 tests comes after the US Food and Drug Administration issue new recommendations in August, asymptomatic people who have been exposed to the virus should have at least three tests, 48 hours apart, to reduce the risk of missing an infection.
Recorded coronavirus cases in New York City have dropped 27% over the past two weeks, according to a New York Times tracker, although experts believe the true number of cases is much higher because most people are testing at home.
Here’s what you need to know about testing in New York City. You can search for test sites near you here.
Where can I get a free Covid-19 test in New York?
New York City Hospitals and Health, which operates the city’s public hospitals, offers free PCR and rapid antigen testing at select locations across all five counties; No appointment needed. You can find a list of those sites, along with information on the tests offered, on health system website. You can also see waiting times at the website use the health system’s online dashboard.
The New York City Department of Health also offer free quick test at several locations around the city; These sites offer PCR tests and results will be ready within 24 hours. Checks are available by appointment only and appointments are possible online scheduling. The site also includes information on how to view your results on MyChart.
Mayor Eric Adams and health officials announced on April 1 that the city will not let delays in Washington prevent it from providing free testing and immunization services through New York City Hospitals and Health.
“We believe health care is a human right, and we serve every New Yorker regardless of their ability to pay or immigration status,” said Dr. Mitchell Katz, president and chief executive officer. said by the hospital.
Several other providers offer citywide testing. The city website includes a list of them, including those who are not part of the city’s health system. The The state department of health also lists testing sites on its website.
But if you’re checking in at a location that’s not run by the city or state, it’s best to ask ahead of time if you’ll be charged. You should also check with your insurance company about any fees associated with the test.
State mass testing sites still open?
New York state officials ran several mass testing sites, including in New York City, throughout the pandemic, but they shrink many of them as the winter Omicron rise diminishes. The state has the ability to reopen sites if needed.
Do the test sites have regulations on who is eligible?
City officials suggested that all New Yorkers get tested, including those who do not have Covid-19 symptoms or are at high risk of developing serious illness from the virus.
However, some testing sites have age requirements. For example, many mobile testing sites run by NYC Hospitals and Health only test people over age 4, and home kits are intended for people over age 2.
And sites that aren’t operated by the city or state may have other restrictions to test, such as requiring recent exposure to the virus, so it’s best to ask first.
What about the Covid test tents I see on the sidewalk?
Policies at various private test tents on sidewalks across the city vary widely, so check before you scan.
Sharon Otterman, Emily Cochrane and Hurubi Meko contribution report.
