Drive-thru testing for the Coronavirus has begun in New Albany

Beginning today, health officials will be using a drive-thru format to test for coronavirus. Initially, the testing will be done in the parking lot of the Floyd County Health Department.

“I’m pleased that our health officials have agreed the need for more widely available testing is necessary,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan. “For right now, the drive-thru testing is being done for pre-screened patients only. That means you need to have a recommendation to be tested from a primary care provider or the Health Department. Since more widespread testing is now in place, I would expect the number of coronavirus cases identified in our area to increase as well. I urge our residents to remain calm and not panic due to more identified cases. Identifying those who are currently affected with the virus is needed to protect the people of New Albany not currently ill. Please read through the following information from the Health Department regarding guidelines for the new drive-thru testing.”

Health officials emphasize that this process will not test people who show up without pre-screening, nor will walk-ins be tested at this time. Initial service hours today are from noon until 3 p.m.

This testing will only be done on pre-screened patients. Patients who are currently testing, should continue this practice. The Health Department's tests will be run by a non-governmental lab. The intent is to identify and test patients who do not require immediate hospitalization.

The patients will be pre-screened by the primary care provider or the Floyd County Health Department. The patient will then be given an arrival time. Health workers are not doing on demand testing; the pre-screening process is essential to avoid delays and wasted, unnecessary tests.

On arrival, patients will have a copy of their government ID and insurance card (if available) made using an electronic device. They also will be asked to provide contact numbers.

A swab will be done of the nasopharynx. The testing process itself will take less than five minutes, the release states. Patients will be notified of test results, which may take several days to return.

This testing plan is a project in evolution. The Health Department will provide updates on changes in hours, format and testing procedures. For more information, call 812-948-4726, ext. 656