Froedtert South begins drive-thru COVID-19 testing

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital started drive-thru COVID-19 testing Tuesday, March 17. The purpose is to limit the exposure inside the hospital. 

The drive-thru swabbing clinic is available by appointment only; health officials don't want people just showing up to limit exposure to the virus. You must call ahead to speak with a medical professional first who will take you through a screening process. 

Not everyone will be accepted. Most will be directed to primary care physician. 

Here's how the drive-thru works: Nurses confirm your information, then swab nose and mouth then you’re on you’re way and your test is sent to a lab. Result time varies.

"For people that are potentially infected or maybe high risk or have come in contact with somebody we wanted to limit their exposure inside hospital campuses and facilities and there was a public concern. I think people really needed to know that we were out there making sure they were being taken care of and tested," said Aaron Miller, with the Froedtert South Coronavirus Task Force Team.

Most insurance will cover testing or it's at minimal to no cost. 

Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The clinic -- located at 10256 Old Green Bay Road (Highways 31 & 165), Pleasant Prairie -- is not just for Kenosha County residents. However, you MUST call ahead at 262-671-7777.