PEMBROKE PINES, FLA. (WSVN) - The coronavirus testing site at C.B. Smith Park in Pembroke Pines has closed for the day after long lines of vehicles in and around the park.
Memorial Healthcare System said the hotline was put in place to reduce wait time.
Broward County now has three testing centers set up across the county. Broward Health is operating a site in Pompano Beach, while Cleveland Clinic is set up in Weston, and Memorial Health is in C.B. Smith Park.
7News drone video captured a long line wrapped around the park on Sunday.
The line for COVID-19 testing at CB Smith Park at 2 PM. pic.twitter.com/gao94987MO
— Joel Franco (@OfficialJoelF) March 22, 2020
Those who meet the criteria below are encouraged to call the CB Smith Park Screening Center at 954-276-4680.
- First responders: police, fire rescue and hospital workers who are symptomatic.
- Individuals who are 65 years or older, “Who has a chronic condition, and who also has symptoms,” according to Dr. Jennifer Goldman, who organized the drive-thru testing and the hotline
- Goldman also specified, “Anyone who has had recent international travel, or travel within the United States to areas that have been the hardest hit.”
The hotline will be operating on Monday, March 23 from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Daily hours will change starting Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., seven days a week.
Goldman gave some advice on what to do if patients call the hotline and are told they’re not eligible for the test.
“If you don’t meet criteria for testing, but you’re feeling sick, the most important thing to do is to stay home,” Goldman said. “We’re all practicing social isolation. That’s really important to prevent the spread of this virus, so stay home. If you have concerns about your health, most importantly if you’re having difficulty breathing, then please go ahead to the emergency room. They’re happy to see you and take care of you.”
For those patients not feeling well, Goldman said, “The most important thing is to stay hydrated, to stay home and to get better without exposing others. The recommendation for all of us is to self-isolate.”
Patients who pre-register will be given a confirmation number and a packet will be waiting for them at the park.
Officials said those who plan to get tested must bring their ID to match the information on the packet.
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