Swampscott To Start Charging For Resident Coronavirus Tests

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — Swampscott officials are blaming the expiration of CARES Act and FEMA funding for having to charge residents for drive-thru coronavirus tests starting next week.

Swampscott, which had offered free testing for residents since September, will require a $70 payment to Cataldo Ambulance starting Monday.

The final day of free testing is Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.

"Unfortunately, the funding used for testing is no longer available to us but we are dedicated to continuing to provide opportunities for testing in our town," officials said.

The town said it spent $50,000 over three months of free testing.

Starting next week testing will take place Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Residents are required to pre-register for a 35-minute testing window here.

"We do not want cost to be a barrier to our residents," officials said, "so limited financial support is available upon request."

Free testing for those without symptoms can also be found in Lynn and Salem.

Medical facilities may also accept insurance for full coverage if you are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus.

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