OC Health Care Agency announces the launch of the OC COVID-19 testing network

(Santa Ana, CA) — The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is pleased to announce the launch of the OC COVID-19 Testing Network, which offers COVID-19 testing starting Tuesday, April 21, 2020 to Orange County residents who meet the criteria detailed below.

The Network coordinates and expands testing across Orange County to create a safety net for any community member who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms but is unable to receive testing through a health care provider.

“We have partnered with an initial set of community health centers who are performing FDA-approved PCR testing, the most reliable testing available to detect current infection,” said Dr. Nichole Quick, County Health Officer. “The OC Health Care Agency will continue to work diligently to expand this network by bringing more locations online in the days and weeks to come.”

The PCR test identifies if someone is currently infected from a sample taken with a swab. It is not a blood test, nor does it test for antibodies. Residents with symptoms of COVID-19, which generally include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, should first contact their medical provider to get guidance on testing and care. Individuals who are unable to be tested by their provider may schedule an appointment at any Network test site to receive a medical screening and test. Initial locations include:

• AltaMed Medical Group, Anaheim
• AltaMed Medical Group, Santa Ana/Bristol
• Nhan Hoa Comprehensive Health Care Clinic, Garden Grove
• UCI Health, multiple locations

A continually-updated list of test sites, with information on scheduling and the appointment process, can be found here or by calling the HCA’s Health Referral Line at 1(800) 564-8448.

“Because of continued challenges of obtaining testing supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care providers, testing may be restricted at times to high priority groups as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),” said Dr. Quick. “Residents must make an appointment for testing to assure eligibility and availability of testing.”