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testing for covid-19

Alameda County COVID-19 testing information


State & Local Alameda County
COVID-19 Emergency Declarations End

February 28, 2023


With the end of emergency declarations, it's more important than ever to get connected to health insurance for timely no‑cost testing and treatment. Below are a couple of helpful tips to keep in mind.

If you have health insurance

Reach out to your medical provider for COVID-19 testing and self-test kits.

Health plan enrollees have the right to eight free over-the-counter at-home COVID-19 tests a month. Health plans must continue to cover the same number of at-home tests after the public health emergency. Contact your health plan for details.

For more information about your healthcare rights click here.

If you do not have health insurance or a plan that doesn't cover COVID testing

Visit one of our Alameda County Community Testing Sites.

If you have Medi-Cal

As COVID-19 becomes less of a threat, California will restart yearly Medicaid eligibility, a process known as redetermination.

  • Make sure your contact information is up to date.

  • Call 888-999-4772 to report changes to name, address, phone number, or e-mail.

    OR

  • Click here to update your contact information.

  • If you were sent a renewal form, submit your information by mail, phone, in-person, or online, so you don't lose your coverage.

If you would like to apply for health insurance

 

  • Find out if you qualify for Medi-Cal benefits here.

  • Apply for Medi-Cal here.

Call our Community Support Line at 510-268-2101 for additional information.

 


Get free COVID-19 self-tests
›
How to get free COVID-19 self‑test kits
Self-test expiration dates
›
Check if your self-test kit is still good
Test like a Pro!
›
Learn how to read your results and when to retest
Tested Positive?
›
Don't wait! Get free life-saving treatment within 5 days of the start of symptoms!
Isolate with confidence
›
Prevent spreading the virus by isolating effectively
Know before you go
›
How to choose a safe testing site

Warning Icon

Testing continues to be a critical resource to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to keep you and your loved ones safe. If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19:

  1. Get tested using one or more of these testing options: At-home test, Rapid Antigen or Rapid PCR test or PCR.
  2. Isolate while you wait and if tested positive. For more information visit the Isolation & Quarantine page.
  3. Don’t wait to seek life-saving treatment. Learn more about COVID-19 medications.

Free Community Testing Sites

As of March 3, 2023, all Optum Serve testing sites are permanently closed.

Please see below for other nearby testing locations.

Community testing sites are free of charge for un-insured and under-insured individuals. You do not need a doctor’s referral or medical insurance to get tested, and you will never be asked about your immigration status. Test results are available within 15-30 minutes (rapid antigen) or 2-5 days (PCR).

Most testing sites are able to test all ages unless otherwise indicated. All CORE-run testing sites can test ages three and older. Parents of infants are encouraged to check with their primary care providers before testing. Community testing sites cannot take new walk up requests for testing 30 minutes before closing.

If you have medical insurance, contact your doctor/healthcare provider. Additional COVID-19 testing is also available through independent testing providers who are not affiliated with the county. Independent providers may charge a fee, bill your medical insurance, or utilize tests that are not recommended for diagnosing current infection with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Please inquire about the costs and types of test being offered when selecting an independent provider for testing.

If you do not have medical insurance, please schedule an appointment at any of our Community Testing Sites or find a Testing Event near you. 

If you have experienced less than quality service at any of our testing sites, please submit your concern here: https://veoci.com/veoci/p/links/TestingSiteFeedback Meeting your needs is a high priority and we assure honorable resolutions.


Community Testing Sites Map

 

Community Testing Calendar

Community Testing Sites Locations

North County

Asian Health Services Community Testing
Clinton Park

655 International Blvd. Oakland, CA 94606
Entrance on the corner of 6th St and 12th St
PCR & Rapid Antigen Testing: Monday 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Appointments Recommended
Walk-ins are limited based on capacity
Schedule an appointment here call (510) 735-3222

Asian Health Services Community Testing
416 8th Street Oakland, CA 94607
PCR & Rapid Antigen Testing:

  • Tuesday & Thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Wednesday 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Rapid Antigen Testing Only:
  • Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Appointments recommended. 
Walk-ins are limited based on capacity
Schedule an appointment here call (510) 735-3222

CORE and Allen Temple Baptist Church
8501 International Blvd., Oakland, CA 94621
Tuesday thru Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM on testing days
Register here
Walk-ups welcomed

Grand Lake Farmers Market
746 Grand Ave., Oakland CA 94610
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Rapid testing only
By walk-up only
*Please note: Testing will be unavailable when raining.

La Clínica de La Raza
BART parking lot, on corner of Derby and E 12th street, (near Guadalajara restaurant)
Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Closed for lunch 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Register for testing at La Clínica de La Raza here

Native American Health Center
Parking Lot
3050 International Blvd., Oakland, CA 94601
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Modified Testing Hours, Thursday, 3/23 Only: Testing will be available until 1:00 PM today.
Lunch break: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Lunch on Tuesday: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Register here or call (510) 535-4400 to make an appointment.
Please Note:

  • For children under the age of 13 an I.D. for the parent/guardian is required.
  • Walk-ins welcomed until 4:00 PM or until we reach daily capacity.
Roots Community Health Center 
9925 International Blvd., Oakland, CA 94603
Thursday & Friday 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Registration is preferred but not required
Register here
Mid County

CORE and Glad Tidings International Church of God in Christ
1000 Glad Tidings Way, Hayward, CA 94544 (for drive-thru services)
1027 West Tennyson Rd, Hayward, CA 94544 (for walk-thru services)
Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Closed 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM on Tuesday - Friday & 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM on Saturday
Register here
Accepting walk-ups for walk-thru services
Appointments necessary for drive-thru services.
Register ahead of time to improve your testing experience.
Testing available for individuals 3 yrs and older.

La Familia
Skywest Golf Course

1401 Golf Course Rd., Hayward, CA 94541
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM- 3:30 PM
Register here 
Walk-ups welcome, but an appointment is highly recommended.

Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center
Firehouse Clinic
28300 Huntwood Ave, Hayward, CA 94544
Thursday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Testing by appointment only.
Register here or call (510) 471-5880 to schedule an appointment.

BACH @ Family Bible Fellowship
37620 Filbert St, Newark, CA 94560
  • Friday March 10, 2023 at 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Register Here
Registration is highly recommended, but walk-ups are accepted until capacity has been met.

CORE and Newark Wellness Center (Alameda Health System)

6066 Civic Terrace Ave, Newark CA 94560
Drive-Thru Testing
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed 1:00 PM - 2:00 PMc
Register here
Walk-ups welcome, but an appointment is highly recommended.

CORE and Faith Fellowship Foursquare Church
577 Manor Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94579
Drive-thru testing
Tuesday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Closed from 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
** IMORTANT NOTE: This site will permanently close for testing after Tuesday, March 21st, 2023. 
Register here
Walk-ups welcome, but an appointment is highly recommended. 

CORE and REACH Ashland Youth Center
16335 E 14th St., San Leandro, CA 94578
Walk-up testing
Wednesday 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
** IMORTANT NOTE: This site will permanently close for testing after Wednesday, March 29th, 2023. 
Register here
Walk-ups welcome, but an appointment is highly recommended.

Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center
Ashland Community Clinic
16110 E. 14th St, San Leandro, CA 94578
Monday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Friday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Testing by appointment only.
Register here or call (510) 471-5880 to schedule an appointment.
East County

BACH @ Fremont Central Park
40500 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94538
Parking Lot Behind Aqua Adventure

  • Monday March 27, 2023 at 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Friday March 31, 2023 at 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Register here
Registration is highly recommended, but walk-ups are accepted until capacity has been met.

BACH @ Ohlone College
43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539
Parking Lot G

  • Monday March 20, 2023 at 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Friday March 24, 2023 at 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Register here
Registration is highly recommended, but walk-ups are accepted until capacity has been met.

BACH @ 11th Street
34800 11th St Union City, CA 94587 (parking lot)

  • Monday March 13, 2023 at 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Friday March 17, 2023 at 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Register Here
Registration is highly recommended, but walk-ups are accepted until capacity has been met.

Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center
Union City Clinic
33255 9th St, Union City, CA 94587
Tuesday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Testing by appointment only.
Register here or call (510) 471-5880 to schedule an appointment.

Additional Testing Information

  • Anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (see below)
  • Anyone vaccinated or unvaccinated, regardless of symptoms, who has come in close contact (within 6 feet for 15 minutes or longer) with someone confirmed to have COVID-19 within the past 14 days
  • Health care workers
  • Employees of long-term care facilities and skilled nursing facilities
  • First responders (Firefighters, EMTs, Police, etc.)
  • Anyone with chronic medical problems that impact the immune system
  • Essential and frontline employees (grocery store, restaurant, delivery drivers, security, construction, etc.)
  • People who have been in large crowds where mask wearing was inconsistent
  • Youth or adults participating in sports activities are encouraged to get regular testing

When to Get a COVID Test

There is a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Some of the common COVID-19 symptoms include:
  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
Emergency Warning Signs for COVID-19: If you or anyone else is exhibiting any of the emergency warning signs listed below, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Bluish lips or face
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake

With the end of emergency declarations, it's more important than ever to get connected to health insurance for timely no‑cost testing and treatment. Later this year, Medi-Cal will lift automatic coverage renewal options that were provided during the COVID-19 emergency and resume annual redetermination and enrollment processes. Below are some helpful tips to keep in mind.

If you have health insurance

Reach out to your medical provider for COVID-19 testing and self-test kits.

Health plan enrollees have the right to eight free over-the-counter at-home COVID-19 tests a month. Health plans must continue to cover the same number of at-home tests after the public health emergency. Contact your health plan for details.

For more information about your healthcare rights click here.

If you do not have health insurance or a plan that doesn't cover COVID testing

Visit one of our Alameda County Community Testing Sites.

If you have Medi-Cal

As COVID-19 becomes less of a threat, California will restart yearly Medicaid eligibility, a process known as redetermination.

  • Make sure your contact information is up to date.

  • Call 888-999-4772 to report changes to name, address, phone number, or e-mail.

    OR

  • Click here to update your contact information.

  • If you were sent a renewal form, submit your information by mail, phone, in-person, or online, so you don't lose your coverage.

If you would like to apply for health insurance

 

  • Find out if you qualify for Medi-Cal benefits here.

  • Apply for Medi-Cal here.

Call our Community Support Line at 510-268-2101 for additional information.

 

At-home COVID-19 self-tests provide rapid results and can be taken anywhere, regardless of your vaccination status or whether you have symptoms. Here are some ways you can obtain free at-home self-tests.

  1. Order your free COVID-19 self-tests this winter from the Federal Government at covidtests.gov or call 800-232-0233 for help with placing an order.
  2. Medicare members can visit Medicare.gov for participating pharmacies and present your Medicare ID card at the pharmacy counter.
  3. Medi-Cal member may contact Medi-Cal Rx to locate an in-network pharmacy to obtain an at-home test at no cost. See details on the State Medi-Cal website for how to submit a claim.
  4. Your health care/insurance provider is required to offer a certain number of free tests monthly or reimburse for those tests. Tests may also be FSA/HSA-eligible. Contact your health care or insurance provider to learn more.
    • Anthem Blue Cross
    • Blue Shield of California
    • Healthnet (Under “At-Home COVID-19 Tests”)
    • Kaiser Permanente Testing Information
    • Sutter Health
  5. You can get free self-test kits at any Alameda County Community Testing Site. Community Testing Sites offer free-of-charge rapid antigen and PCR testing across the county. Each testing site location provides free FDA-approved COVID-19 self-testing kits upon request (while supplies last; daily limit may apply).

Parking meter with taped sign that reads: Date Entensions

At-home COVID-19 antigen self-test expiration extensions

Some at-home COVID-19 tests may have an expiration date that has passed. Don’t worry, expiration dates have been extended. To check whether your test kit is still good beyond the printed expiration date, you can refer to the following resources:

  • View FDA-authorized list of at-home test kits, including information on expiration dates.
  • Check your iHealth Rapid test expiration extension.


The emergency extension applies to all FDA authorized over-the-counter COVID-19 tests, including:

  • Abbott BinaxNOWTM COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test
  • AccessBio CareStartTM COVID-19 Antigen Home Test
  • ACON FlowflexTM COVID-19 Antigen Home Test
  • iHealthTM COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test

How to test like a pro images of test results 


Download pdf

English, Spanish, Farsi, Arabic, Dari, Vietnamese, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Pashto.

When to Re-test for COVID-19:

 English | Spanish (other languages coming soon)

How to use the BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Self Test
 How to use the iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test ;
 FLOWFLEX SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Test

  • Medi-Cal Redetermination
    Later this year, Medi-Cal will lift automatic coverage renewal options that were provided during the COVID-19 emergency and resume annual redetermination and enrollment processes. Please help get the word out to clients and communities: Alameda County residents with Medi-Cal should make sure Alameda County has current information on file with the Alameda County Social Services Agency, or call (888) 999-4772. Medi-Cal enrollment is key to accessing health care services as well as programs like CalFresh. Having the appropriate contact information on file will help the Social Services Agency process timely renewals and enrollments.
  •  
  • Serologic Testing FAQ (ACPHD 10/16/20)
  • What to expect after you are tested
    PDF:  English | Spanish | Arabic | Chinese (Simplified) | Farsi | Korean | Vietnamese
  • When should I get retested for COVID-19?
    PDF:  English | Spanish | Arabic | Chinese (Simplified) | Farsi | Korean | Tagalog | Vietnamese

Do you have a complaint from a community testing site?

Please submit here: https://veoci.com/veoci/p/links/TestingSiteFeedback

  • Alameda County Health Care Services Agency Public Health Department Testing Site Requirements
  • Testing Information & Guidance for Clinicians and Providers

Just tested positive for COVID-19?


Alameda County Health Care Services Agency Public Health Department Coronovirus COVID-19
  • 510.268.2101
  • emailncov@acgov.org

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