KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs announced that the county would pay for COVID-19 testing for uninsured residents through the Knox County Health Department, according to a release on Wednesday, March 25.
“One of the most important things we can do to stop the spread of COVID-19 is extensive testing,” Jacobs said. “As we continue to keep our community protected, we’re happy to help people who cannot afford that cost.”
To qualify, those without insurance must first call the Knox County Health Department at 865-215-5555.
Health Department staff will assess patients over the phone to determine testing options. Residents must be symptomatic and meet clinical guidelines to be tested, the release said.
Symptoms include a fever of more than 100.4, a cough and shortness of breath.
Please note, the tests are limited and only those who meet the clinical guidelines will be tested since supplies are low, according to the county. Walk-in testing is NOT available at the Health Department at this time.
The mayor added that residents need to also continue practicing social distancing.
For more information about COVID-19, visit https://covid.knoxcountytn.gov/