The state announced plans this week to expand COVID-19 testing in the Triad by working with a new partner.

North Carolina-based StarMed Healthcare will deploy free testing sites in Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg, Onslow, Orange, and Randolph counties. 

StarMed will work with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and local public health officials to decide which areas are most in need of testing. The provider has already been conducting drive-through testing events in partnership with several county health departments, including Forsyth. 

The expansion news comes about a week after Forsyth County health officials disclosed that 100 patients had been charged for StarMed COVID-19 tests that were supposed to be free. StarMed Healthcare COO Tracey Hummell said the bills were sent in error from their insurance clearinghouse.

“We've cleared up the issue. And again, it was just a sample of patients and a glitch with our clearinghouse. But we've been assured that the issue will not happen again. And nobody is responsible [to pay] because we did promise free testing and we adhere to that,” says Hummell.

Hummell said all those affected by the mistake have been notified and will not be required to pay. 

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.

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