Partner Resources

Free COVID-19 Testing (6/10/2020)

We’re excited to share that Columbus Public Health is now offering free, drive-thru COVID-19 testing in partnership with Mount Carmel, OhioHealth and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Anyone in the community with symptoms can now get a free test, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Columbus Public Health (240 Parsons Ave.).

Testing is critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19 and helps saves lives. If you’re sick, it’s important to get a test as soon as possible to protect yourself, your loved ones and the community. Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19 testing at Columbus Public Health:

You don’t need health insurance to get a free test. You can find out more about enrolling in health coverage through Medicaid or the Marketplace here.
You don’t need a doctor’s referral, but registration and appointments are recommended. Community members can call Columbus Public Health at 614-645-1519 to register or for any questions.
If you test positive for COVID-19, a public health employee will call you and ask questions about where you have been and who you have been in close contact with. This is called contact tracing, and the information gathered is only used to contact potential cases so they can be quarantined to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In addition to Columbus Public Health, nine other community sites throughout Columbus are also offering free COVID-19 testing. You can find a list of test sites by visiting www.columbus.gov/coronavirus

Health & Prevention

Mask Requirements

Ohioans are required to wear cloth masks while in public. Wearing a mask will not prevent someone from contracting COVID-19, but it can help prevent them from spreading it to others -- especially if they have it, but are not yet showing symptoms. Cloth masks are not a substitute for social distancing, but rather, it is a complement to social distancing.

View details about the state and local mask requirements

View helpful DIY tips to make your own mask

More Health & Prevention Resources

Columbus Public Health

Franklin County Public Health

Ohio Department of Health (ODH)

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

World Health Organization (WHO)

COVID-19 and your pets
Humane Society of the United States
National Animal Control Association

Community Resources

Scam Alerts and Resources

Fear and uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic could give rise to an outbreak of scams. Officials are also seeing more scams related to identity theft and unemployment claims. Officials are warning to be aware of possible scams that aim to take advantage of you during this crisis. Report COVID-19 fraud by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov

Resources for Older Adults

Throughout the pandemic, older adults have been encouraged to stay home more and limit close contact with others. Services for older Ohioans have remained flexible to meet residents’ needs and changes in how those services are delivered.

Individuals who can use help with meals, transportation, home repair, care needs, and more should contact their area agency on aging. Call 1-866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community.
The Ohio Department of Aging’s Staying Connected service provides a FREE, daily check-in by phone for Ohioans age 60 or older. Participants can also connect with aging services and request a friendly chat. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected or call 1-833-632-2428 to sign up.
More coronavirus information and resources for older Ohioans, caregivers, and service providers is available at www.aging.ohio.gov/coronavirus.

COTA 2021 Fare & Service Updates (12/9/2020)

COTA will soon reinstate fares for customers, after temporarily suspending them at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other Community Resources

Local news publications are waiving online subscription fees and requirements for COVID-19 related news coverage during this public health emergency.