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The Mayo Clinic Health System COVID-19 testing site in Albert Lea will relocate Tuesday to the north side of the health system’s East Annex building on St. Mary Avenue.

Patients who are scheduled for a COVID-19 test should enter the site on Washington Avenue, according to a press release. Signage will be placed around the area to direct traffic.

Mayo Clinic Health System has been offering drive-thru screening for patients who meet criteria for COVID-19 testing since mid-April outside the HealthReach campus. The release stated this process has allowed testing to be quicker and safer for both patients and staff members while helping minimize any potential transmissions of COVID-19 within the medical facility and the community.

“This new testing site, which is only one block from the main medical center, will allow Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea to be able to continue to provide access to the diagnostic test over the long-term,” said Rita Moyer, operations administrator at Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea.

The testing site will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“This new location will benefit patients in many aspects,” Moyer said.. “Lab specimens can be prepared and sent off for Mayo Clinic Rochester faster. The tent will be in closer proximity to extra staffing if needed helping us accommodate more patients per day if and when needed.”

Patients must first call their Mayo Clinic Health System primary care clinic to be tested. A provider or nurse will determine if patients meet criteria and will schedule a drive-thru test. Tests will not be offered to people who have not been pre-screened over the phone. The virus spreads rapidly, and this process will help minimize potential exposure to other patients and staff.

Patients experiencing symptoms should take the following steps:

• First, call their primary care clinic/provider for a phone screening.
• If they meet the criteria for testing, patients will be directed to the nearest drive-through testing location.
• At the drive-thru location, Mayo Clinic Health System staff will collect the specimens using appropriate precautions.
• The specimens will then be sent to Mayo Clinic in Rochester for analysis.
• Patients will be advised of next steps.