Norwalk Coronavirus: Drive-Thru Test Site Set At Norwalk Hospital

NORWALK, CT — A drive-thru coronavirus (COVID-19) test collection site has been set up at Norwalk Hospital, announced Nuvance Health, which has a similar site at Danbury Hospital.

The Norwalk Hospital site is in the parking lot at the intersection of Stevens Street and Elmcrest Terrance, and is only available to people with COVID-19 symptoms who have been pre-screened.

According to Nuvance Health, both the Norwalk and Danbury sites are set up to allow people suspected of having COVID-19 to give a specimen sample for a test. The Norwalk Police Department has closed off incoming traffic to Elmcrest Terrace from Route 1 to accommodate the test collection site.

"These are not testing sites," officials said, distinguishing between testing and collection. "Testing is done offsite and results are not immediately available."

The collection site is ONLY for people who meet ALL of following criteria:

• You called your doctor’s office and had a consultation
• Based on your symptoms and other information you provided, your doctor determined that you meet criteria for COVID-19 testing, and ordered a test for you
• You have a scheduled appointment at the collection site

"We established the collection sites to reduce possible exposure to COVID-19 at our medical practices and hospitals, and to the residents in our communities," officials said.

To see all of the criteria and the process for scheduling an appointment at the drive-through site, visit www.westernconnecticuthealthnetwork.org/novel-coronavirus-covid19-update/covid19-collection-site-information

Additionally, Nuvance Health has established a COVID-19 Community Hotline, in which medical staff will answer questions and address concerns surrounding the virus.

"They will also provide remote screenings if you think you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, which include cough, fever, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, and travel and possible exposure history," officials said. "If you meet the clinical criteria for possible infection with COVID-19, the medical staff will help you with next steps. Phone number: 888-667-9262. Hours of operation: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week."