LANSING, Mich. – There are going to be 77 new, free COVID-19 test sites in Michigan, according to officials. READ: 4 differences between first Michigan COVID spike and nowThe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is launching the new sites thanks to a partnership with Walgreens and the Michigan Primary Care Association. “Cost should never be a barrier to Michiganders who need health care, including COVID-19 testing,” said Gov. “Containing the pandemic requires robust, easily accessible, free testing – and this is a big step in the right direction.”The new partnership with Walgreens has expanded its COVID-19 testing to 36 locations through the state. Michigan’s expansion of its partnership with the Michigan Primary Care Association will ensure patients do not face costs for testing at 47 locations.

LANSING, Mich. – A partnership between the United Health Foundation and the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA) to develop a pilot program for genetic testing and screening for breast cancer was announced Thursday. Gretchen Whitmer announced the three-year partnership after she proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. READ: Ann Arbor native releases ‘Chemo Stories’ podcast for Breast Cancer Awareness monthThe American Cancer Society and MPCA will screen additional patients and engage high-risk patients and their family members in genetic testing. “One of the most crucial things we can do to prevent and treat breast cancer is raise awareness and expand access to health care, cancer screenings, and genetic testing,” Whitmer said. “As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, it’s important to remember that while we must take precautions to stay safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also crucial we seek important medical care and regular screenings that can detect cancer before symptoms appear.”READ: More Breast Cancer Awareness Month coverage