Monterey Peninsula College serves as new drive by COVID-19 testing site

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION)

Monterey County and Monterey Peninsula College are partnering with Planned Parenthood Mar Monte to offer drive-by testing to the community.

This new location is offering free COVID-19 tests to anyone with medical insurance regardless of showing symptoms.

Patients will be asked for ID and proof of medical insurance.

A medical professional will then conduct the testing while patients remain seated in their cars to limit contact.

Monterey County Health Director, Doctor Edward Moreno says the county has been pushing for more testing for weeks.

He emphasizes the importance of increased testing.

"Whether you're sick or not, to find out if you're infectious, we in public health can give you information you need to isolate yourself. That's how we as a community are going to slow down the spread of the virus," said Moreno.

Doctor Moreno pointed out language barriers as one of the challenges the county has seen and says they are working to bring more language accessibility in services to those who need it.

He says test results will help the county determine when and which restrictions can be loosened to the public.

First responders will be tested today.

The site will be open for the community beginning Tuesday.

For more information, visit Planned Parenthood for Mar Monte at planned parenthood.org or email COVID19testing@ppmarmonte.org