Kelli Hawkins, SRHD | khawkins@srhd.org | 509.324.1539, c. (509) 994.8968

SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) is collaborating with Washington State Department of Health (DOH) to administer a new way to provide underserved members of our community public health supplies. SRHD opened a kiosk at Northeast Community Center that provides free COVID-19 tests, flu tests, and will soon include naloxone and other health care tools.

Key features of the kiosks include:

• Convenient access: The kiosk makes it possible to access health care tests and supplies at any time in an accessible location.
• No cost to communities: DOH covers all costs associated with COVID-19 and flu tests.
• Test options: The kiosk dispenses free COVID-19 rapid antigen tests, multiplex rapid antigen tests (which detect flu types A and B as well as COVID-19), and self-swab PCR tests.
• Flexible product allocation: The kiosk holds about 700 tests. At least half need to be COVID-19 and flu tests provided by DOH. SRHD will add other health supplies to the kiosks at their own cost.

Testing is an important tool to control the spread of respiratory viruses. SRHD’s respiratory illness data shows that although respiratory virus activity peaks in colder months, COVID-19 is active throughout the year, requiring consistent mitigation strategies.

“Rapid testing is an effective way to provide information on a person’s possible infection and the potential of transmitting it to others,” said SRHD Health Equity Manager Devyn Bell. “Making tests accessible and available to community members without cost will align with SRHD’s health equity goals to break down barriers to care for people who are medically underserved.”

Community members can access the kiosk outside the Northeast Community Center’s east entrance.

Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) is a leader and partner in public health by protecting, improving and promoting the health and well-being of all people through evidence-based practices. SRHD is one of 34 local public health agencies serving Washington state’s 39 counties. Visit www.srhd.org for comprehensive, updated information about SRHD and its triumphs in making Spokane a safer and healthier community. Like SRHD on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to receive safety and wellness tips.