Community Testing Clinic Opens at Fairgrounds, Free Rapid COVID Tests

Lewis and Clark Public Health and partner health systems opened a drive through COVID testing clinic at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds in Helena at 98 W Custer Avenue on Dec. 22. The clinic provided free Abbott BinaxNOW rapid antigen tests for people who were symptomatic within the first seven days of symptoms and for known close contacts, operating weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. excluding observed holidays.

Appointments were encouraged, and those with appointments were given priority, but symptomatic individuals were urged to drop in. Results were usually available the same day. People who provided an email address received a link to results or a call from a health department representative by the end of the day or the next morning. Lewis and Clark Public Health said all results would be reported to the State of Montana within 24 hours and that test information was protected. PureView Health Center and Benefis Health System supplied supplemental staffing at the clinic.

The clinic increased local testing throughput at a time when rapid detection remains central to controlling transmission and keeping schools, workplaces, and services functioning. Rapid antigen testing is most sensitive during the first week of symptoms which is why the clinic focused on that window and on known exposures. Quick same day results supported faster isolation and contact notification compared with longer turnaround times for laboratory testing.

At the same time the clinic exposed persistent equity and access issues. A drive through model can be efficient, but it disadvantages people without reliable vehicle access and people who cannot attend during weekday daytime hours. The clinic did not provide PCR testing required for travel or some employment clearances. Residents needing PCR tests were advised to contact their health care provider. The partnership between the county health department and local health systems demonstrated coordinated public health response, while also underscoring the need for broader testing options, flexible hours, and outreach to reach vulnerable and working families across Lewis and Clark County.