New partnership aims to relieve Arizona’s COVID-19 testing woes

Arizona’s lack of COVID-19 testing capacity has resulted in long lines for tests and long wait-times for results. But a new partnership between ASU and the Arizona Department of Health is looking to change all of that. We spoke with ASU Biodesign Institute executive director, Dr. Josh LaBaer about the new test and how they hope to make testing smooth.

The salvia test that was first under development in late May is now ready to be administered. This comes at a time when the state has seen a demand for testing. A lack of testing centers has caused many to wait for hours just to be tested. With many having to wait up to a week or two to find out their results.

But according to Dr. LaBear, his team is able to get results within a day of being tested with the new test. The saliva test is currently being offered at the Ak-Chin Pavilion, but more sites are set to roll out soon. As of the weekend, his team has given out roughly 700 tests.

Dr. LaBear hopes that the test and the testing system will help with the demand for testing. The system is as easy as signing up for a time, pulling up to the testing location, and spitting into a tube. Those that take the test will receive the results within a day. As of now, testing is free for anyone who would like to be tested. If you would like to sign up for the new test click here.

Furthermore, you can learn about the new testing here.