Drive-Thru Coronavirus Testing To Begin In Southfield

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Southern Oakland County residents who show symptoms of the coronavirus can get drive-thru testing at the county health division's South Oakland Health Center beginning on Thursday.

The county is offering testing for first responders, essential or critical infrastructure employees, adults age 65 or older experiencing symptoms, or those with underlying conditions.

Testing will be offered Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by appointment only. To make an appointment, call the Health Division's Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533. The South Oakland Health Center is located at 27725 Greenfield Road.

The expanded testing was a devised through a collaborative effort between U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield, and Oakland County Executive David Coulter.

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"In our efforts to broaden our understanding of COVID-19, we believe it is prudent to open more drive-thru testing accessible to residents in areas with a higher number of cases," Coulter said. "I'm so proud of our residents who have taken the necessary steps to keep themselves and others safe. I applaud Congresswoman Lawrence for her leadership. The residents are the true beneficiaries of this effort."

The county announced its first drive-thru testing site earlier in April, at 1200 N. Telegraph Road in Pontiac. That testing site does not require a doctor's prescription and is by appointment only.

Beginning May 4, testing at the South Oakland Health Center will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.on Mondays and Wednesdays. Testing at the Oakland County government campus in Pontiac will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The county is currently in the process of selecting a third site for Friday testing.

Rep. Lawrence said she worked closely with Coulter and his administration to ensure people who live or work in the southern part of the county have access to the site for much-needed testing.

"Cooperation and coordination are so important when addressing a health care emergency unlike anything we have seen in our lifetimes," Lawrence said. "I appreciate the opportunity to work with the county executive and his team to bring this essential service to our residents and workers. I encourage those who need it to get tested."

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