April 3, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Next Tuesday, April 7th, the Howard County Health Department, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Health, will begin offering drive-through COVID-19 testing at the Columbia Emissions Testing Center for residents who are displaying symptoms, have a referral from their healthcare provider, and an appointment for testing. At this time the site, located at 6340 Woodside Ct #1071 in Columbia, will be open for appointments from 10am to 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“To effectively track the spread of COVID-19, we must have more testing and the new drive-thru testing at the Columbia VEIP Station is a step in the right direction,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “Ultimately there is a shortage of testing across the country, and we’re working with our state and federal partners to remedy that as quickly as possible.”
To qualify for testing, residents will need to get a referral from their healthcare provider and will then be given directions on how to register online and make an appointment at a test site. At the test sites, residents will remain in their vehicles with the windows rolled up until they receive their test.
After receiving their test, residents will be given additional information about how to properly self-isolate at home. If symptoms worsen, residents should contact their healthcare provider, especially if they experience shortness of breath.
Domestic Violence Resources
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball shared resources today for victims of domestic violence and abuse, noting an uptick around the country amid many stay-at-home orders. If you or someone you know need help, please call one of our 24-hour hotlines, HopeWorks at 410-997-2272 or the National Domestic Violence 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233).
For more information on how you can help HopeWorks, please see their Wishlist here: http://a.co/8EWQXTK
Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD)
Howard County REACT has launched a critical grocery and medication delivery service. This service is intended to assist Howard County citizens that cannot leave their homes during the COVID-19 crisis and are having trouble getting groceries delivered in a timely fashion. This service is a joint venture between Howard County REACT and Howard County COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster).
To get started
· Place your order for PICKUP with any Howard County Safeway, Harris Teeter, or Walgreens (Medications only)
· Please setup a pickup date and time at least 24 hours from now
· Once you place your order, please fill out the form online
· When form is completed, a representative from Howard County REACT will touch base with you shortly
· If you are having trouble placing your request, please call 410-782-0432.