Where to Find Free COVID Tests in the Twin Cities
At the peak of the COVID pandemic, the government set up many centers around the Twin Cities to administer free COVID tests. Even some private centers opened their doors to administer tests. However, these testing sites are harder and harder to come by.
Many people, yourself included, are wondering where to find free COVID tests in the Twin Cities. Or any COVID test, for that matter. This includes tests that cost a fee.
In this guide, GatherWell answers frequently asked questions about free COVID tests. We often have people calling into our office asking if we provide COVID tests for free. We answer that we do charge for our tests, but we also want to point people in the right direction so that they receive the healthcare they need.
For convenient, same-day COVID tests in the Twin Cities, you can sign up for a paid test through our website. Don’t stress about your results – you’ll know whether you’re positive or negative within 24 hours!
Why Are Free COVID Tests Harder to Find These Days?
The need for COVID testing has dropped as more people get vaccinated and governments lower their public emergency statuses. Fewer areas require temperature checks, which means fewer people are seeking COVID tests in the Twin Cities.
Overall, lower test demand means health centers can’t financially support the staff and equipment needed to offer tests. Some urgent care clinics are even refusing to serve individuals with COVID symptoms. And other doctor’s offices simply say to stay home and rest if you believe you’re experiencing symptoms.
But this doesn’t mean COVID tests in the Twin Cities are unnecessary. Many people still need tests for work, travel, and precautionary measures for immunocompromised people.
Are Sites in the Twin Cities Still Offering Free COVID Tests?
Yes, there are sites in the Twin Cities that still offer free COVID tests. If you’d like to search for potential sites, you can visit the COVID location page on the mn.gov site. However, be prepared for a system that’s difficult to use. You’ll need to pay attention to the specifications of each location. For example, you may be required to meet with a clinician beforehand. Others have odd hours that won’t work with your schedule. Be sure to read the fine print before you head to one of the testing sites listed on the website.
Why Pay for a COVID Test at GatherWell?
We understand that getting a free COVID test can sound appealing. But sometimes, navigating multiple sites and figuring out site-specific requirements can be more headache than it’s worth. If you’re looking for a COVID test in the Twin Cities today, then consider choosing GatherWell.
Our COVID tests are competitively priced and provide you with the options you need. For example, most free testing sites will only offer a PCR swab. But with GatherWell, you can choose tests that cover:
- COVID-19 Rapid Antigen
- COVID-19 NAAT
- COVID-19 RT-PCR
- COVID-19 + Flu A & B Antigen
- COVID-19 + Flu A&B + RSV (RT-PCR)
- COVID-19 Antibody – Immune Response
- Respiratory PCR Panel (COVID-19 + Flu A&B + RSV + 15 other pathogens)
This might sound like a long menu, but our team is standing by, ready to help you choose the COVID test that’s best for you.
GatherWell also provides a suite of convenient benefits that aren’t offered by most free testing sites in the Twin Cities:
- Accurate testing (more accurate than a home test)
- PCR results within 24-48 hours
- Antibody results within 15 minutes
- Convenient drive-through facilities
- Same-day scheduling
Sometimes, it’s worth it just to know whether you have COVID or not. In that case, let’s schedule your test today!
Where to Find GatherWell COVID Tests in the Twin Cities
GatherWell has four locations in the Twin Cities. You can find us in Ham Lake, Elk River, Edina, and North Branch. Each of these locations offers drive-through, no-contact testing services so that you can stay safe and comfortable in your car.
To get started, click our “Book an Appointment” button. Simply select the test you’d like to receive, pick a time that works best for you, then submit your payment. Easy! Then all you need to do is show up at the right time, and we will collect the sample.
Don’t forget that GatherWell offers many other tests—including flu, strep, and allergies. Don’t deal with the hassle of waiting a week to get into a primary care provider. Rely on GatherWell to confirm your condition so that you can get back to what matters most.
