Information on COVID-19 Testing
Getting tested for COVID-19 is important for vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals because it’s the only way to know for sure who has the virus and who doesn’t. If you have the virus but don’t know it, you could unintentionally spread it to loved ones and across your community
COVID-19 Testing Frequently Asked Questions
For those experiencing symptoms or exposed to COVID-19
Follow CDC guidance on when to get tested. People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may change with new COVID-19 variants and can vary depending on vaccination status. Check the CDC list of symptoms for more information.
Other circumstances
You do not have to experience symptoms or exposure to get tested. Testing may be recommended or required for a variety of reasons, including travel or attending a crowded event.
The CDC’s viral testing tool can be used to decide when you should get tested and how to understand your results.
Yes. Only health care providers and local or state public health departments will have information about test results. They will not share names or contact information with any other agencies.
The amount of time it takes to get your results depends on the type of test, lab capacity and site staffing. If you have not received your results after 48 hours, or the timeframe identified by your testing provider, please contact your testing provider directly.
Your test provider will confirm how you will receive your results, which can be provided by phone, mail, email or patient portal.
Self-testing is available and can be used by anyone regardless of their vaccination status. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
The CDC has guidelines on what to do if your self-test is positive or negative.
Individuals with health insurance should contact their insurance company to inquire about accessing cover-the-counter tests for free.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly encourage everyone who uses a self-test to report any positive results to their health care provider. Health care providers can ensure that those who have tested positive for COVID-19 receive the most appropriate medical care, including specific treatments if necessary.
Some local public health departments are asking residents to consider voluntarily sharing at-home COVID-19 test results:
Find a COVID Test
Our COVID testing event calendar is now a collection of resources to better share the variety of testing options that are available.
Community testing resources
Many sites offer free tests even if you don’t have insurance, and test results are confidential. Call ahead for specific details.
State Testing Maps
Curative Mobile Test Sites
- KCATA – Kansas City, KS
- Metropolitan Community College – Penn Valley
- University of Missouri – Kansas City
Local Health Departments
- Cass County, Mo.
- Clay County, Mo.
- Jackson County, Mo.
- Johnson County, Kan.
- Platte County, Mo.
- Wyandotte County, Kan.
Community Health Partners
Home Testing
At-home over-the-counter COVID tests are a fast and convenient way to test, especially for individuals who test frequently due to potential exposure outside the home.
While the federal free at-home test program is no longer accepting new requests, other free at-home test options are available. Learn more at covid.gov.
Kansas
Free tests are available to Kansas households through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
Test Reimbursement
At-home over-the-counter COVID-19 tests are eligible for reimbursement or free of charge through your insurance. Learn more at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Local Pharmacies
Some local pharmacies also offer COVID testing, or sell at-home tests, including:
This page was updated on Sept. 22, 2022.