Due to the high rate of infection in the region, Southwest Public Health District is greatly expanding its schedule for collection of specimens for COVID-19 testing in Dougherty, Thomas and Miller Counties. This specimen collection for COVID-19 testing is available to individuals in the following categories, regardless of county of residence:

Anyone with symptoms of COVID-19

Adults age 60 or older

Caregiver for elderly (age 60 or older)

Caregiver for immune compromised person

First responder who is critical to the epidemic response

Healthcare worker

Patient with serious chronic medical condition such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease

Immune compromised patients

Anyone who works or lives in congregate setting

Individuals who want to be tested can contact the call center from 8:30am to 5pm, Monday through Thursday; 8am to 7pm Friday; and 8:30am to 7pm Saturday to determine if they are eligible for an appointment. Specimen collection will be done 8:30am to 5pm Monday-Friday and 8am to noon Saturday in Dougherty, Thomas, and Miller Counties. Public Health will not be charging for this service, said Dr. Charles Ruis, District Health Director for Southwest Public Health District 8-2.