COVID -19 Chronicle - Update December 2020

MAY 2020

JUN 2020

JUL 2020

AUG 2020

SEP 2020 AND BEYOND

Testing by the Numbers Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, testing has been considered a key part of slowing the spread of the virus. Early, accurate detection helps not only guide the treatment of patients who are ill but gives them the information they need to help keep people around them safe. Since we rolled out testing in early 2020, we’ve made the process easier, more accessible, and, best of all, increased the number of tests that can be done every day. Most recently, on November 4, we were able to expand testing to include all inpatients at Northern Light Health facilities across the state, creating an even safer environment for our patients and staff.

Swab and Go Update The big change that our communities and patients may have noticed is where many of our tests are performed. Last spring, we moved quickly to set up testing sites, and Northern Light Health, like many other healthcare facilities across the nation, rented tents to serve as drive through testing locations. Having testing sites in dedicated areas helped us centralize access, reduced the use of personal protective equipment, and reduced risk to non-COVID-19 patients and staff. But winter was coming, with snow and freezing temperatures, and that meant we needed a better solution. Northern Light Health’s Swab and Go testing sites are now housed in dedicated care sites, or in temporary structures resembling garages. Not only will these temporary facilities be warmer this winter, providing better protection from the elements for patients and staff, but they also will save us money and can be repurposed in the future.

Above: Bangor area COVID-19 Swab and Go testing site, located at the Bangor airport. Patients drive in and through to be tested by Northern Light Work Health staff for COVID-19 while remaining in their vehicle.

Pharmacy Even with the increased availability of tests for people with symptoms and without, there are still people who are either unable to get a test, or who want a faster turn around time than other testing options. Northern Light Pharmacy stepped up to meet this need, offering self-pay, drive-thru, self-swab tests at their State Street pharmacy in Bangor. “This service makes testing available to people who desire the convenience of receiving testing at a pharmacy or do not qualify under the other tiers of testing available,” says Matt Marston, AVP, Northern Light Pharmacy. “This was the first pharmacy-based testing available north of Augusta, and we were excited to be able to offer it to our community.” To date, the pharmacy has tested 200 people.

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