Testing

The COVID-19 test is available at NO Cost to You, it’s confidential and safe. All New Yorkers can get a COVID-19 diagnostic test at No Cost to them, whether or not they have symptoms or are at increased risk. New Yorkers can also get antibody tests at NO Cost to them to know if they have been exposed.

All New Yorkers Should Get Tested

NYC Health + Hospitals offers free testing at hospitals, health centers, and new pop-up locations across the five boroughs. Just walk-in – no appointment needed!

NYC Health + Hospitals also offers antibody testing at 11 hospitals and select Gotham Health centers. Test results are available in 3- 5 days at the city-run NYC Health + Hospitals locations.

Tests Are Free

COVID-19 tests and antibody tests are available at No Cost to You. Remember, you do not need health insurance to get a COVID-19 or antibody test at an NYC Health + Hospitals location or at many other testing sites across the city. If you have insurance, please bring your insurance card so that the insurance plan can be billed. You will not need to pay any copay or co-insurance.

You will not be asked about immigration status. COVID-19 testing and care services are not a public benefit under the public charge rule.

While You Wait for Results

You’ll generally receive test results in 3-5 days if you got tested at an NYC Health + Hospitals location. Results may take longer at other sites.

While you wait for results, and after your results, it’s important to continue taking all the necessary steps to protect yourself and others:

• Stay home if sick – Only leave for essential medical care and testing or other essential errands.
• Keep physical distance – Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.
• Wear a face covering – You can be contagious without symptoms. Protect those around you by wearing a face covering.
• Keep your hands clean – Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

If You Test Positive – What’s Next?

If you test positive, that means you have COVID-19 and are at risk of spreading it to others. One of our trained Contact Tracers will contact you by phone promptly to make sure you get the medical care and support you need to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Our Contact Tracers will be able to offer a wide range of support services to help you to safely separate at a free, private, comfortable hotel, or at home. They will also ask you about your close contacts to offer them assistance and help them find the best place to separate safely from others.

Repeat Testing

If your previous COVID-19 test was negative, you should get another test if you:

• have symptoms of COVID-19.
• have spent time in large crowds
• had contact with someone you think may have COVID-19
• Live or work in a residential congregate setting, such as a nursing home or shelter.
• You are planning to spend time with someone with high risk for severe COVID-19 illness, including people 65 or older and people with serious underlying medical conditions.

At-home testing for COVID-19 is now available to all immunocompromised New Yorkers and those ages 65 and older. To schedule an in-home appointment, call (929)-298-9400 between 9am and 7pm (7 days a week).