Patients visiting Spectrum Health Pennock for an outpatient COVID-19 swab test are now being seen behind the hospital in the old retail pharmacy drive-thru.
The relocation of COVID-19 testing away from the emergency department entrance allows for less congestion at the main entrance, more room for traffic flow and a safe and sheltered place for staff and patients as cases continue to rise and inclement weather approaches.
Patients will enter the testing site through the east entrance into the hospital off W. Green Street and follow signs along the Wellness Center building to drive up to the new testing area for a brief swab procedure, while remaining in their vehicle.
“We’re very excited to roll out this drive-thru process,” said Spectrum Health Pennock president, Angela Ditmar. “We’ll be able to conduct tests in a more efficient and safe manner. This allows us to meet the needs of our community through the colder months.”
Due to an increasing demand for COVID-19 testing and a nationwide shortage of supplies, Spectrum Health announced eligibility changes for those seeking a test. The modifications ensure that those who are most in need can quickly and easily get tested.
The following changes went into effect on November 13:
A scheduled appointment is required to get a COVID-19 test. Spectrum Health will not be able to accommodate walk-ins or drive-ins at any of its COVID-19 testing sites without an appointment for that day and location. Click here to learn more about how to be screened and schedule a test.
If seeking only a test, do not go to the Emergency Department, Urgent Care or Walk-in-Clinics to be tested. Only go to these locations when seeking urgent or emergent care.
Spectrum Health will be regularly assessing the testing criteria for our patients to ensure that it reserves enough tests for symptomatic patients. As the demand for COVID-19 tests decreases, it will be able to widen the opportunities for people to get a COVID-19 test.
Other resources. Spectrum Health understands that those who are asymptomatic may still want to be tested. Please go to the State of Michigan website for a list of test sites.
It is recommended those with an exposure to COVID-19 follow public health guidelines and quarantine for 14 days.
The community is urged to continue practicing social distancing, to wear a mask in public and to wash hands frequently. Spectrum Health thanks the public for its support and cooperation as it responds to the increase of COVID-19 in our communities.
For more information, visit Spectrum Health’s COVID-19 resource center here.
