Seattle Needs Walk-Up Testing for People Without Access to Cars

Drive-through coronavirus testing is generally a safe way to limit contact between medical professionals and those who seek to be tested. The Seattle Times counts that the majority of the over two dozen Seattle area testing sites offer only a drive-through option, leading community members to question: How can people access testing without a car?

"Advocates for people who ride transit and people with disabilities asked Mayor Jenny Durkan and the Seattle City Council Wednesday to require drive-thru services, including health care and businesses like fast-food restaurants, to allow people to approach on foot or using a wheelchair," reports Heidi Groover. Mayor Durkan's office said in a statement that they would be supportive of a measure to allow pedestrian access to testing facilities and other drive-through services, but has yet to make a plan for legislation. 

People without access to cars raise reasonable concerns about traveling in general due to the increased risk of exposure on public transit as well as ride-hailing services. King County officials encouraged people to avoid public transportation and announced that King County Metro is working with public health officials to develop a service to facilitate people with COVID-19 in getting to their medical appointments. 

Prior to the onset of the pandemic, Portland adopted guidelines allowing for bicyclists and pedestrians to access drive-throughs when other pedestrian areas were closed. There is ongoing support in Seattle for the immediate adoption of a similar policy.