Coronavirus Drive-Through Testing In Anne Arundel County

GAMBRILLS, MD — Drive-through coronavirus testing sites are popping up across the country as medical professionals attempt to limit the exposure of patients who test positive for the virus. Chesapeake ERgent Care in Gambrills has one of Anne Arundel County's first drive-up coronavirus testing sites. Residents can't simply drive up and ask to be tested, however.

Patients simply stay in their vehicle and can be tested for the flu, strep throat, a respiratory infection and, if they qualify for one, can be tested for the new coronavirus.

“People don’t want to contaminate other people. They know that they’re sick and they know they’re contagious so they want to stay in their car,” Dr. Ron Elfenbein told the Capital Gazette.

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The doctor explained that the entire testing process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The nose and throat are swabbed, then the swabs are given to a medical technician for processing. The patient then receives an iPad to video chat with a medical professional, which helps prevent the spread of disease. In the meantime, the tests are analyzed and they will know if they are negative for strep, the flu or something else. If they are negative, then they may be tested for the new coronavirus.

Anne Arundel Medical Center also has a drive-up testing site for patients who have been registered in the hospital’s system, screened by a doctor and ordered to get tested, Arminta Plater, AAMC spokeswoman, told the Capital Gazette.

The CDC advises doing the following to stop the spread of the virus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If this is not available, use hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Keep 6 feet of space between people.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

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