The Kanawha-Charleston Health Department said it will begin billing patients’ insurance for COVID-19 PCR testing beginning July 1.

Health department leaders said the change in testing practices comes as federal funding for testing has run out, making it unsustainable to continue offering free PCR testing into the future.

“Many testing locations throughout the state transitioned to billing private insurance a month ago,” Dr. Steven Eshenaur, KCHD health officer and executive director, said in a news release. “While we were very fortunate — working with local and state partners — to be able to extend free COVID-19 PCR testing a few more weeks, we realized it just is not sustainable without additional funding at the federal level.”

Alternatively, people may request a free COVID-19 test kit for at-home use.

Testing will be by appointment only and can be arranged by calling 304-348-8080, the health department said.

Appointments are available from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Walk-in service is still available during those hours for those who only want the home test kit.