Free COVID-19 Testing For Uninsured Brookline Residents

BROOKLINE, MA — Brookline residents who are uninsured will have access to free COVID-19 testing if they are displaying symptoms or have been informed they are a close contact of a positive case, the town announced Thursday night.

"Health coverage should not be a barrier to testing, as it's a core element of the work we're doing to fight back against this pandemic," Brookline Health Commissioner Dr. Swanni Jett said.

The free testing comes as Brookline has been designated as a "medium" risk for COVID-19 infection according to state public health data released Nov. 19.

The Town's average daily incidence rate, which the state uses to calculate risk determinations, is 10.9 per 100,000 residents throughout the past 14 days, putting it in the "yellow" category of risk. Brookline had been in the "green" or low risk category for weeks.

As such, the town is asking residents to be mindful of the increased risk and continue to wear face coverings at all times while in public both indoors and outside, as well as practice distancing and avoid gatherings.

Brookline community members can now get tested at the clinic in the Department of Public Health building, and those who are uninsured will have their testing expenses covered by the town.

Residents who are insured and are symptomatic will have their tests billed through their insurance provider.

"We're glad to be able to support residents in need who are experiencing symptoms or who have come into close contact with those who have contracted the virus," said Jett. "Doing so helps keep the entire community safe by enabling us to quickly identify those who are sick and directing them to isolate."

In order to qualify as a close contact, you must show documentation from the state or local Department of Public Health that indicates they have come into contact with a positive case. The Brookline Department of Public Health emails a letter to residents identified as a close contact and that can be used.

PCR swab tests are available at the Health Department building, 11 Pierce St., on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can be made by booking online here.

The testing program will continue through Dec. 30. Beginning Nov. 30, the site will also be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays.

The cost of testing is $140 for asymptomatic individuals who have not been identified as close contacts of a COVID-positive person.

Free testing is also available through the state's Stop the Spread initiative. For more information, click here.