The Ohio National Guard provided COVID testing in Portsmouth today at Compass Community Health Center on 11th Street.
Greg Gulker, of Compass Community Health, told SCDN he was very pleased with the turnout.
“We had 60 people lined up at 9 am this morning”
Gulker explained the test kits they were using had an upgraded feature. They don’t poke your brain. He said they were a true nasal swab and non-intrusive. Many people have heard the horror stories of the application of the tests and have opted to forego the test. The Ohio National Guard, we’re told, brought the tests that were much more “patient-friendly”.
The testing process was very well planned and executed. There was a distinct entrance where you were greeted by Compass Health Staff. Then, you proceed to the testing tent where members of the Ohio National Guard medical team would conduct the test right in your vehicle. Gulker stated the process was five minutes from start to finish.
Today’s testing was a response to the promise of Governor Mike DeWine that “anyone can get tested”. He, along with Mrs. DeWine, and Lt. Governor Jon Husted. we tested in front of cameras during yesterday’s press conference.
Appointments were needed for today’s event at Compass Community Health. However, that didn’t slow down the response. While our cameras were there, many people came through with ease and no back-ups.
Test results are promised, by the Governor, to take only 48 hours. As of our update from Scioto EMA today at 12:30 pm, there have been 29 confirmed cases in Scioto County. A slight uptick has been blamed on vacations and travel. This was expected as the Stay at Home mandate was lifted and business began to re-open.
Gulker seemed quite pleased with the turnout and the ease of the process from today’s event. It would not be unreasonable to assume another event like this would be happening in Portsmouth again.