There are a number of places where you can get a COVID-19 test, but before you go looking for one you should discuss your symptoms with a doctor. You may contact your own primary provider, or you may take a self-assessment that is offered online by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. They state that you can expect a call back from a medical provider within an hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you have been told that you need to be tested, your test may be covered by insurance if you have a “comprehensive health insurance plan.” All comprehensive health insurance plans must pick up 100% of the cost of coronavirus testing, as well as any visit to the emergency room, doctor’s office or urgent care center that may have led to that testing. That includes any COVID-19 test deemed appropriate by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Comprehensive health plans are individual, employer-sponsored or exchange plans that meet the coverage requirements spelled out in the Affordable Care Act. If you’re insured by a short-term plan or another plan that isn’t ACA-compliant, your insurer may not cover the costs associated with your test. Be careful, though, as shown by this NPR article, there can be unexpected costs.
There is one provider in the general area, “The Doctor’s Office” in Darien and Janesville, that is advertising a cost of $130 for a test. They do not accept insurance, and they recommend calling ahead to inquire about doctor availability. Fort Memorial Hospital is offering drive through testing by appointment, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday; 9:00a.m.-1:00p.m. Saturday & Sunday, but you should check with them at (920) 648-7696 regarding costs and insurance coverage.
The only way to get a free test without insurance is to go to one of the mobile clinics that the State is setting up, generally operated by the National Guard. Unfortunately there are none nearby currently, and be advised that sometimes people report having to wait for hours to get tested. Before going be certain that you have been told by the online assessment or by a physician that you need to be tested. Current locations are listed below, but we suggest that you consult this page. Those tested should bring their own pen and tissues.
Burlington High School, drive through – May 13-15, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Telfer Park, 2101 Cranston Road, Beloit, drive through – May 14-21, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Krueger Park, Moore & House Streets, Beloit, drive through – May 14-21, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Alliant Energy Center, Madison, drive through – May 14 – “ongoing,” 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Carlo Nevicosi, Deputy Director, Walworth County Department of Health & Human Services, told the Banner that his office has been attempting to have a mobile clinic in the county, but there are no plans yet. Of course a person who believes that they may have an active case would not want to wait for a clinic to be set up.
