Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Reduces County Community Testing Sites

Los Angeles, Calif. (April 28, 2022) – The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and Los Angeles County Department of Health Services or DHS April 28, announced a shift in availability of widespread free COVID-19 testing.

This move comes as the federal government has stopped providing money to fund coronavirus tests for individuals who lack health insurance. Federal regulations require health insurers to cover FDA-approved COVID-19 diagnostic tests at no out-of-pocket-cost to the insured. As a result, limited available funds for free testing in LA County will be focused on providing access to testing for county residents who are uninsured. LA County residents with insurance can still access community sites through the county but must provide their insurance information to secure and receive a PCR test.   

During the last two years due to the urgent nature of the COVID-19 crisis, LA County offered free testing to everyone. Even those who had health insurance often chose to go to the free county community testing sites because it was faster and more convenient.

However, as the access and availability of COVID-19 testing has improved, insured individuals now have many other options when it comes to getting tested for COVID-19, including notably their personal provider, sites offered through their health plan, as well as a variety of retail pharmacies. Those who are insured should prioritize testing through their personal provider as it helps facilitate high quality continuity of care. 

The County’s Community Testing sites, including participating libraries, will continue to serve community members without health insurance, regardless of immigration status. Individuals without insurance are encouraged to visit community testing sites as needed to receive a free PCR test with no out-of-pocket charges.  All PCR tests offered through the county’s community testing sites are EUA-approved for COVID-19 testing. 

LA County residents who do not have a doctor should call 211 to get connected to primary care.

Details: Uninsured communities can visit: covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/.