Here’s how to get free COVID-19 testing in metro Phoenix

PHOENIX — Arizona has committed to ramping up coronavirus testing efforts after the state was plagued by a shortage of tests and faced lengthy turnarounds when cases surged in June and July.

The Arizona Department of Health Services website lists more than 350 testing sites in the state.

Policies for patient criteria, billing and preregistration vary by location.

Here’s a look at where to find them (all are for diagnostic PCR tests and require preregistration unless noted):

Arizona Sports and Entertainment Commission: ASEC is holding a free rapid antibody and COVID-19 testing event Sept. 5 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The event will take place at 15100 North 78th Way. Registration is required.

Arizona State University saliva testing: The ASU Biodesign Institute created a saliva test for COVID-19 that is less invasive than the nasal swab collection process used for most testing. Results are available within 48 hours.

The following locations are administering the test:

• State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 6:30-10:30 a.m.
• Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W Alameda Dr., Tempe, on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30-10:30 a.m.
• Ellie Towne Community Center, 1660 W. Ruthrauff Road, Tucson, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 7 a.m.-noon.
• NAU Fieldhouse, 1050 S Knoles Dr., Flagstaff, on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m.- 2p.m.

Find information about signing up for the upcoming sessions, and others after they’ve been scheduled, here.

University of Arizona antibody testing: UArizona is expanding access to its free statewide testing for COVID-19 antibodies, which indicate a person had an infection but has recovered.

Essential workers in 15 additional categories, including educators, child care workers and members of the National Guard, have been added to the list of those eligible. The program started with just health care providers and first responders.

Find details about eligibility, locations and registration here.

Valle del Sol: The community health and human services group is providing free testing at select locations every Friday. The testing is only for COVID-19.

Appointments are required, with each session running from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Find information about registration here.

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