New Kensington clinic offers covid-19 tests for people with no symptoms

Community Health Clinic Inc. in New Kensington is offering free walk-up/drive-by covid-19 tests to anyone, even if they don’t have symptoms, a doctor’s prescription or a referral.

The only requirement is area residents have to make an appointment for the test at least two days in advance. Testing begins the week of July 7 and will be held every Tuesday and Friday at the New Kensington clinic, 943 Fourth Ave. Results are available in two to three days.

Community Health Clinic received a federal grant to pay for the tests. The clinic has the money but had to wait to secure the personal protective equipment to offer the testing, said Raji Jayakrishnan, executive director of the clinic.

While there are other places to receive free covid-19 tests, the Community Health Clinic is somewhat different, Jayakrishnan said.

“There’s not much of asymptomatic testing out there,” she said. Other venues, such as drug stores, that offer free testing have criteria, including displaying symptoms of covid-19. The virus can be spread by people with no symptoms, according to health experts.

Clinic staff will check if people stopping for the test need other medical, dental and behavioral services, Jayakrishnan said.

If there is demand, the covid-19 tests might be expanded to the new Greensburg office, at 218 S. Maple Ave., she said.

Area residents who want to get tested must register by calling 724-204-1802 to schedule an appointment.

Residents with health insurance must provide insurance information when registering but will not have any co-pay. There is no charge for people without insurance.