LARNED – In the grassy parking lot of the Escue Chapel at 1220 Carroll Ave. in Larned stands a blue and white COVID-19 testing kiosk where free tests for the virus are offered.0
The site is part of a statewide campaign launched in December that includes the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and a host of health-care companies, partnering to bring this service to as many Kansans as possible.
In December, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly and the State of Kansas announced the “Stop the Spread. It’s Up to Us, Kansas” campaign to share the importance of getting tested, wearing masks and to encourage social distancing to stop the further spread of COVID-19.
The effort included the initiating a new testing website, GoGetTested.com/Kansas, to quickly identify free testing locations throughout the state. The site lists all locations in the state, with over 30 scattered across the Kansas.
As part of this effort was the establishment of the COVID testing locations in kiosks, mobile stations and buildings, as well as a media blitz heralding the drive.
The site in Larned is operated by WellHealth Management, with different companies operating the various locations, said Kristi Zears, KDHE spokesperson, The next closest site is in Hays, and after that the closest are in Hutchinson, Salina and Dodge City.
According to GoGetTested, walk-up testing is available, but appointments are recommended and can also be made via the GoGetTested.com/Kansas portal. One is asked to enter a cellphone number to start the process, and appointment confirmation will be sent by text message to that number.
Insurance or an official identification are not required. Only a name and a phone number or email are needed.
However, one must sign a public health consent form. This is required to track testing data and to be in compliance with multiple health regulations.
Those tested will receive their results in 48 to 96 hours using the number and email they provide.
