Getting tested for COVID-19 in Manatee County will be a little easier this week
The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County wants to get more residents tested.
In an effort to make that happen, prescriptions to be tested for COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, are no longer needed, but an appointment is required.
In a statement released Tuesday, health officials note, “Patients who call to get an appointment will be screened for signs and symptoms and then scheduled for a specimen collection at the drive-through.”
Testing will be done at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, in Palmetto. Health officials initially said a prescription would be needed, but that is no longer the case.
The three-day testing period begins Wednesday and appointments can be made by calling 941-748-0747 and there is no cost for anyone being tested at the drive-thru sites.
Testing is scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will continue Thursday and Friday at the same times.
DOH is reporting that there are 240 tests available and will schedule up to 80 appointments for each day.
Requirements to attend include:
- Be in a vehicle. No walk-up patients will be seen.
- Drivers must remain in their vehicles at all times.
- Drivers must present a photo ID.
Anyone who believes they may be infected with COVID-19 and not able to be tested during the three-day event, should call the Manatee County DOH’s health line at 941-242-6649 before calling 911.
Paid testing continues through MCR Health.. MCR’s fees are based a sliding scale depending on income.
MCR locations include:
- East Manatee Health and Wellness Center, 1312 Manatee Ave. E.
- Southeast Family Healthcare Center, 919 53rd Ave. E.
- Southwest Health Center, 5325 26th St. W.
- Lawton Chiles Children & Family Healthcare Center, 1515 26th Ave. E.
- Edgar H. Price Family & Children Healthcare Center, 12271 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Parrish.