Coronavirus Next: When will testing woes improve?

Unfortunately, COVID-19 tests in Massachusetts can't avoid the laws of supply and demand. That's why as the Omicron variant is surging, test-seeking residents are sometimes finding empty shelves in stores or waiting hours in line at testing sites. 

My colleague Hanna Krueger and I asked: When will these testing woes improve?

The Baker administration on Wednesday announced a plan to help alleviate one part of the problem: the high cost and low inventory of rapid tests. The state inked a deal with three major manufacturers to sell discounted bulk shipments of rapid test kits to cities and towns. 

The Baker administration did not indicate whether it would add sites that provide the more comprehensive PCR tests, or if it would provide existing test facilities with money to help meet the staggering demand.

But Baker on Thursday defended the state’s ability to make tests available. He said residents will have to “be patient” as the demand for tests soars.