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Adirondack Health expands regional COVID-19 testing

SARANAC LAKE — Following the receipt of 2,000 additional COVID-19 test kits from Trudeau Institute, Adirondack Health officials announced Wednesday, May 13, that they have devised a plan to significantly expand testing throughout the region.

The plan includes mobile testing clinics.

  In order to simplify the scheduling of tests, standing provider orders are in place at all Adirondack Health testing sites. Individuals are still encouraged to contact their primary care providers to get tests ordered, but no one will be denied a test for lack of such orders.

  Adirondack Health’s former dental van has been repurposed and recertified by the New York State Department of Health to serve as a mobile testing clinic, further expanding the health system’s testing footprint in the North Country.

  Appointments are still required for all tests performed at Adirondack Health facilities and suggested for the mobile testing clinic.

At mobile clinic stops, those with appointments scheduled in advance will experience shorter wait times. Every COVID-19 test will entail a nasopharyngeal (sinus) swab, with the option to also have blood drawn to check for the presence of antibodies.

  In order to schedule an appointment, people need to contact their primary care provider or the COVID-19 clinic at 518-897-2462. There is no direct cost to the individual being tested, but Adirondack Health will collect health insurance information and bill insurance companies. Insurance companies, in turn, are prohibited by New York state from charging co-pays or deductibles for COVID-19 testing.

  Locations and hours of operation for expanded COVID-19 testing by Adirondack Health are:

  ¯ COVID-19 Clinic, Adirondack Medical Center, Saranac Lake: Noon to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday

  ¯ Keene Health Center: 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesday

  ¯ Mobile testing clinic: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday (locations will vary — stay tuned for additional details)

  Adirondack Health’s expanded testing efforts will continue for the foreseeable future, subject to the continued availability of COVID-19 test kits.

Starting at $1.44/week.

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