Consortium Assembled For COVID-19 Testing
The Pennsylvania Department of Health, Lackawanna County and a group of governmental and public safety bodies have joined forces to offer free COVID-19 testing to area residents in an attempt to combat the stubborn virus, curb its rapid spread, and help residents to stay healthy.
The Department of Health and the Lackawanna County Commissioners are partnering with the Dickson City Police, Pennsylvania State Police, The Lackawanna County Sheriff’s Department, Penn DOT, and the County’s Emergency Services Department on the initiative, which will be held on November 21, 22, 23 & 24 from 7 AM to 6 PM in the parking lot of the former K-Mart store located along Rt. 6, Dickson City.
“This is great news for our residents. We are very grateful to be a part of this effort. It is our duty and commitment to take action to safeguard everyone from the virus. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on our people and small business community. Any defense that we can mount against COVID-19 is well-worth the effort, cost and cause. It’s about saving lives and maintaining wellness the best we can,” explained the Board of Commissioners.
The Commonwealth has contracted AMI Health from Reston, Virginia, to administer the testing. The firm has the capability to test up to 440 individuals per day. Once the daily threshold is reached, testing will cease for the day.
No appointments are needed and people will have a drive-thru or walk-up option. Penn DOT directional signage will guide people to the testing area.
The nostril swab testing is completely free to anyone who wishes to be checked. The age range is three years-old and up, regardless of the symptoms.
AMI will ask for private insurance information to cover the cost of the lab fees. If AMI cannot utilize the person’s insurance, the charge will be submitted to the federal government for reimbursement.
Individuals who test positive will be contacted by AMI in 24-72 hours. Negative test results will be emailed back to the individual in a few days. In the event that he/she does not have an email address, the person will be notified by telephone.
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