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The Greater New Bedford Community Health Center will expand its COVID-19 testing capability by establishing an outdoor testing location at its downtown health center.
The state has designated community health centers across Massachusetts, including the Greater New Bedford Community Health Center, as expanded testing sites.
Those experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19 can be tested through their doctor or healthcare provider. To be tested at the Community Health Center, an appointment must also be made, by calling 508-992-6553.
The GNBCHC was previously able to offer an average of 20 tests a day at the health center, operating under stringent sanitation and social distancing requirements. By moving to an outdoor testing location with more space, the GNBCHC will be in a position to offer up to 50 tests a day beginning Monday, May 4. The expanded testing designation by Governor Baker, the GNBCHC continues to receive test kits and will aim to further increase capacity if demand increases.
“The Greater New Bedford Community Health Center has played a leading role in the response to COVID-19 in New Bedford and the region, and I thank the Baker-Polito Administration for distributing tests to the state’s community health centers. I’m grateful for the support of the GNBCHC staff for their commitment to expand their testing, and for the thoughtful, experienced leadership of Cheryl Bartlett, a tremendous asset to Greater New Bedford,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell.
“We were pleased to be selected by the Baker Administration to increase our testing capacity in New Bedford,” said Cheryl Bartlett, CEO of the Greater New Bedford Community Health Center. “With almost 25,000 patients getting their primary care at the Greater New Bedford Health Center, having expanded testing capacity will better meet the needs of those we serve. We are working closely with the Mayor and his team to coordinate efforts to address the Coronavirus pandemic in the city.”
