In an effort to expand COVID-19 testing to as many Hoosiers as possible, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) is partnering with OptumServe Health Services to offer COVID-19 test sites across the state.
Hoosiers who have symptoms of COVID-19 and those who have been exposed and need a test to return to work are encouraged to visit a state-sponsored testing site. Individuals who are at high risk are also encouraged to get tested, even if they don't have symptoms. There is no charge for testing at ISDH/Optum sites and insurance is not required, only proof of Indiana residency. However, if you have private health insurance, you should bring your insurance card with you.
Hoosiers seeking to be tested at one of these sites must register online at lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 888-634-1116.
These state-sponsored sites are in addition to testing locations operated by private health care providers. You may be able to get tested by a private provider even if you don't meet the criteria for testing at a state-sponsored site.
The state recently launched a website where Hoosiers can find information on COVID-19 testing and a map of testing locations throughout Indiana. The map includes both government-sponsored testing locations and private-sector testing locations.
In our part of the state, test sites are available in Jasper, LaPorte, Porter and Starke counties. The map of testing sites will be updated continuously, so you should check the map to find the most up-to-date information regarding the testing sites near you, like location, scheduling information, hours of operation, payment information (if applicable) and contact information.
For more information on Indiana's COVID-19 testing, click here.
Legislative Council Announces Study Committee Topics
This week history was made when my colleagues and I participated in the first
ever Legislative Council meeting via Zoom.
The virtual meeting assigned topics to be studied prior to the 2021 legislative session, noting that lawmakers will need to study the impact of COVID-19.
For more information and to view the assigned study committee topics, click here.