The Oklahoma State Department of Health plans to ramp up COVID-19 testing as we begin the fall.
One big part of that is the department renewing its contract with IMMY Labs for testing sites across the state. The lab began testing for COVID-19 again this past Friday.
IMMY's online scheduling portal shows drive-thru testing appointments available this week Monday through Friday at the company's Norman location. The tests will be provided free of charge and available for patients 12 months or older. Those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Deputy Commissioner of Health Keith Reed says the state will also be moving more toward rapid tests and away from once-standard PCR tests.
"We're definitely seeing a shift towards looking for that rapid turnaround, almost immediate response," said Reed. "So that's one reason we're trying to increase that capacity in county health departments across the state."
The Biden Administration announced earlier this month its own testing investments. That includes a partnership with major retailers Walmart and Amazon for discounted at-home tests, and a program to send rapid tests to food banks and community health centers.