County debuts wristband system for COVID testing pop-up sites

Demand for COVID-19 testing far outpacing supply across the West Valley, leading to long lines and extensive waits.

To improve efficiency, Santa Clara County is debuting a wristband system for its pop-up sites, which have free testing services.

Under the new system, people seeking a test check in at a test site and are given a wristband for a specific, hour-long timeslot during that day. Organizers hope this will reduce the amount of waiting required before testing.

County officials were quick to note that supplies remain limited. To have the best chance at getting a wristband, “The County advises those interested in a test at a pop-up site to go earlier in the day rather than later.”

“These walk-up test centers are very popular,” said Dr. Marty Fenstersheib, the County’s COVID-19 Testing Officer.

The county is encouraging workers who regularly interact with the public to get tested regularly. Those who recently attended functions or gatherings without masks or social distancing should also get tested.

According to county data, there are more than 50 testing sites in Santa Clara County.

Pop-up testing this week:

  • San Jose
    • Oak Grove High School – 285 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose 95123
      • Tuesday to Friday, July 28-31, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
      • Saturday, August 1, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    • Santa Clara Office of Education – 1290 Ridder Park Drive, San Jose 95131
      • Tuesday to Friday, July 28-31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Gilroy
    • South County Annex (formerly Del Buono Elementary) – 9300 Wren Avenue, Gilroy, 95020
      • Tuesday to Friday, July 28-31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.