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Posted: March 30th, 2020
Drive Through COVID-19 Community Screening and Testing Opens in Natchitoches
Fever, cough, shortness of breath? If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 also known as the Coronavirus, beginning March 31st, drive through community testing and screenings will be available in Natchitoches. This community health service will be offered from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the parking lot of Central Louisiana Technical College (CLTCC) at 6587 Highway 1 in Natchitoches.
Professionals from Natchitoches Regional Medical Center will be conducting the screenings and testing. Community members who have been exposed to the virus or who believe they may have symptoms will be asked to remain in their cars as they receive screening. If after the screening, the professionals recommend testing, the NRMC Associates will do so at a testing station as part of the drive through process and test results will be available in approximately 4 days. All participants must bring a valid photo ID and their insurance card. All insurances including Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance are accepted.
“Our goal is to make screening and testing safely and conveniently located in our parish,” explained Kirk Soileau. “As a community, we need to diagnose cases of this virus, so that people can get the care they need and also protect those who would otherwise be in close contact with them. In most cases, individuals can overcome this illness at home, but they need to self-isolate, so they do not expose others. For those with more serious cases, additional medical care may be necessary.”
Special thanks to City of Natchitoches Mayor Lee Posey, Parish President John Richmond, Senator Louie Bernard, Natchitoches Chief of Police Mickey Dove and Captain Brad Walker, Natchitoches Sheriff Victor Jones, Northwestern State University Police Chief Craig Vercher, Homeland Security Officer Mary Jones, Natchitoches Fire Department Chief John Wynn, Campus Dean of CLTCC Laurie Morrow, and many volunteers.