The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County (DOH) will be offering free COVID-19 testing by appointment for North Sarasota residents on Friday, April 17. The Sarasota DOH's mobile medical unit will be set up in the parking lot of the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, located at 1845 John Rivers St., from 8 a.m.-12 pm.

Testing is for anyone who is currently experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, or shortness of breath) or who works in a healthcare setting; all patients must have an appointment to be tested. To make one, call (941) 861-2883. Callers will be screened using current CDC testing criteria. Appointments are limited; however, the DOH says more testing opportunities may be scheduled in the future.

All patients must have an appointment to be tested. Everyone who arrives for testing appointments must present a photo ID. For questions or more information, call the Sarasota Department of Health at (941) 861-2883.