A COVID-19 testing site opened on the South Coast this week. As with other testing locations, it’s a drive-through site staffed by nurses in full protective gear.
Southcoast Health is asking the media not to disclose the location because testing is open only to people who have symptoms and an appointment.
Dr. Dani Hackner, chief clinical officer for Southcoast Health, says that so far, the three Southcoast hospitals have not seen anyone gravely ill with COVID-19. Of the nine they’ve treated, only two were inpatients.
“And only one patient has stayed beyond one night with COVID,” he said. “One of those patients was treated overnight and was able to go home.”
Hackner said the community has stepped up to the challenge of social distancing, “which is very difficult, having kids and others at home for extended periods.”
“This is really challenging, especially coming out of a long New England winter,” he said.
Southcoast Health is still looking for donations of protective masks.