COVID-19 drive-through KCHD testing Symptom-free
Begins Monday, April 20, at Baxter Ave.
Beginning Monday, April 20, Knox County Health Department will no longer require appointments for COVID-19 testing, a KCHD press release stated.
“KCHD will offer free, drive-thru testing to the public, including to those who do not have symptoms,” the release further stated. “If transportation is an issue, call the KCHD Phone Bank at 865-215-5555 and we will determine an alternate testing option.” and notify patients as soon as results are available.”
Testing, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday at Knox County Engineering and Public Works Building, 205 W. Baxter Ave., features “KCHD team members collecting nasal swab specimens,” the release stated. “… While labs are working to increase turnaround time, results are typically available between three and five days.
“However, people will need to enter through the Wray Street entrance. …. KCHD will have signs and staff directing traffic,” the release further stated. “We anticipate volume will be high, so long wait times should be expected. We urge people to be patient as we work to test as many people as we can. We will continue to work to secure more supplies as it’s our desire to continue this level of testing.”
Another key point: “All those tested will need to self-isolate at least until results are available — longer if the test is positive.” the release stated.
For questions, KCHD’s information line number, 865-215-5555 or toll-free at 888-288-6022, is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 pm., Saturday and Sunday.
“To protect the privacy of individuals who are being tested, media will not be allowed access onto the property to take pictures/videos,” the release stated.
