Philadelphia opens drive-thru coronavirus testing site at Citizens Bank Park
PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia health officials announced on Friday that the city has established a drive-thru coronavirus testing site in the parking lot of Citizens Bank Park.
Healthcare providers will administer test daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Based on the limited number of supplies, individuals must meet a strict criteria in order to receive a test.
People over the age of 50-years-old who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 can receive a test without a doctors note or prescription.
Healthcare workers who are displaying signs of coronavirus are also eligible for testing. These individuals include:
- Hospital and doctors office staff with direct patient contact
- Nursing home staff with direct patient contact
- People who perform Emergency Medical Services duties
- Home healthcare staff with direct patient contact
Testing will only be conducted to those in four-wheeled, closed-top, non-commercial, non-recreational vehicles. Walk-ins will not be permitted.
"Our top priority will be healthcare workers with symptoms, because nobody wants to be treated by a healthcare worker who is carrying this virus," Philadelphia Health Commissioner Thomas Farley said.
An appointment is not necessary, but Farley asks that patients bring drivers license and health insurance card to expedite the process.
"Everyone for whom it's appropriate will be tested regardless whether they have health insurance, but it simply helps us if you have a health insurance card," Farley said.
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Due to a limited supply of tests, anyone seeking a screening who does not meet the site's criteria will be turned away. Farley says scarce supplies may even impact those eligible for a test.
"This is the first day of an operation which has been put together very rapidly over the last few days," Farley said. "It's kind of like the first day of a new restaurant opening up, service is going to be slow, expect a wait."
City health officials strongly recommend anyone who does not meet the criteria and believes they may be symptomatic of coronavirus to contact their healthcare provider immediately for other testing locations.
Citizens Bank Park is located at 1 Citizens Bank Way. Entry to the site will be via Pattison Avenue.
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