Curbside Coronavirus Testing Offered At Bethesda Medical Practice

BETHESDA, MD — Head2Toe Health, a primary and preventative care facility in downtown Bethesda, is offering telehealth services and curbside testing for patients during the coronavirus pandemic.

The medical office at 4938 St. Elmo Ave. is one of several places in Maryland to provide COVID-19 screenings (more locations can be found here and here).

Patch spoke with Dr. Deirdre Angelastro — the owner and clinician at Head2Toe Health — to learn more about the facility's screening process. Here's what to expect:

Telehealth Appointment

Before you can get tested, you'll need to set up a telehealth appointment with Angelastro.

She'll ask you a series of questions, including if you've traveled out of the country in the last 14 days or if you have coronavirus symptoms like a fever or dry cough.

If you meet the criteria and Angelastro thinks you may have COVID-19, you'll be asked to get tested.

Head2Toe Health accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare. If you don't have insurance, the telehealth services and curbside testing will cost $125, Angelastro said.

Curbside Testing

Testing will be available outside Head2Toe Health. Employees will be wearing masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment at the makeshift test site.

Specimens will be sent to LabCorp for testing.

The time it takes to get test results vary, but Angelastro says it can take anywhere from five to seven days.

Since Angelastro began testing patients last week, she has seen three positive cases. At least one case was more serious, she said.

A majority of people will exhibit mild to moderate symptoms — such as fever, fatigue, and dry cough — and can recover at home, Angelastro said.

There are a number of effective measures you can take to stem the spread of COVID-19. That includes washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, avoiding large gatherings, staying home when you feel sick, and maintaining a distance of six feet from others.

SEE ALSO:

• 10 Nursing Homes In Montgomery County Battle Coronavirus
  
• County To Help Fund Hotel Rooms For Hospital Staff Amid Pandemic
  
• Do Not Gather For Worship Due To Coronavirus: MD State Police
• MD Residents Should Wear Face Masks: Health Official
• Here's How Well Maryland Complies With Stay-At-Home Order

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