Testing for COVID-19 is available in Montgomery County for a select group of individuals meeting certain criteria.
Limited testing will be provided primarily for healthcare workers and first responders with symptoms of fever and cough, but will also include persons with a fever and cough who have serious chronic underlying conditions putting them at risk for complications. Testing is by appointment only and with a doctor’s order.
Due to a shortage in supplies, testing cannot be extended to others at this time. Individuals will not be examined on-site and must be assessed by their medical provider to determine if they meet the criteria for drive-through testing. Those who show up without an appointment will be provided COVID-19 educational material and referred to their doctor. Broader testing may be implemented in the future as supplies become more available.
“Due to a shortage of testing supplies, we are rationing this unpleasant nasopharyngeal swab to a very selective group,” said Dr. Scott Douglas, Montgomery County Health Officer. “This group includes symptomatic healthcare providers and first responders who have a doctor’s order.”
Once a patient receives an order to be tested, their doctor will provide further instructions for scheduling an appointment. Symptomatic individuals with more serious symptoms such as chest pain, high fever or shortness of breath should seek medical attention immediately. Those with mild illness should stay home and self-isolate using CDC guidance.
This drive-through testing program is being made available at Crawfordsville High School through the collaborative efforts of the Montgomery County Health Department, Franciscan Health Crawfordsville, Franciscan Physician Network, Montgomery County Emergency Management Agency, Alverno Laboratories and the Crawfordsville Community School Corporation. Limited drive-through testing is a methodology that is proving to be the most efficient means to test while conserving precious Personal Protective Equipment .
Stay updated with current and accurate information on the Montgomery County Health Department website and social media channels. Other information is available on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website (www.coronavirus.gov) or the Indiana State Department of Health website (www.in.gov/coronavirus).
