Kroger has extended its drive-thru COVID-19 testing site in Bowling Green – adding testing on May 6 and 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Testing will occur at Bowling Green State University at the Perry Field House parking lot located at 801 N. Mercer Road, Bowling Green
People can register for testing at: http://krogerhealth.com/covidtesting.
People needing a test will use a virtual screening tool based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to see if they are eligible. Those who are eligible for the testing include CDC Priority 1, 2 and 3. Criteria for testing include persons with COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) who:
- Are healthcare workers
- Are first responders (EMS, fire, law enforcement)
- Are 65 years of age or older
- Are critical infrastructure workers with symptoms
- Have a chronic health condition (heart disease, lung disease or an immune-system-lowering condition, such as diabetes)
- Experience mild symptoms and live in communities with high numbers of COVID-19 hospitalizations
Those eligible will next select the appropriate testing location and appointment time. Then, registrants will receive an email confirmation with pre-appointment paperwork. When the patient arrives for a test, they should have a photo ID ready and leave their windows rolled up for check-in. A healthcare practitioner will approach the car and alert the patient when to roll down their window.
The drive-thru testing location has a self-administered nasal swab that must be ordered and observed by a provider. Kroger determined this testing methodology is beneficial as it increases the number of tests that can be provided while conserving the personal protective equipment utilized.
Test results are expected within approximately 48 hours. The Columbus testing site will handle approximately 330 tests per day.
