As Palm Beach County moves into phase 2 of reopening during this pandemic, FoundCare, a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center, continues to offer free COVID-19 testing. According to FoundCare’s Chief Medical Officer, now is not the time to let our guard down in Palm Beach County.
“Especially after people were traveling and being social after the Labor Day holiday, we want to encourage people to get tested for the COVID-19 virus,” said Dr. Oneka Marriott, Chief Medical Officer at FoundCare. “It’s so easy to make an appointment, and FoundCare is providing a safe testing spot to keep the community protected. As flu season approaches, we want people to be vigilant. We are not out of the woods yet, so we want to stress that people take precautions, including getting a test.”
Prior to being tested, prospective patients must call 561-967-0365 to schedule an appointment and get a patient code. Walk-up appointments will be available for those without transportation. Patients must arrive wearing a face mask or cloth covering. FoundCare staff will safely store the patient’s information, collect the specimen using a test kit, and send the specimen to a qualified lab. The patient will be instructed to self-quarantine at home while waiting for the test results, which can take from 48-72 hours. FoundCare staff will contact the patient with the results as soon as they are available.
FoundCare was the first entity in Palm Beach County to offer drive-through testing on Monday, March 16. Partnering with organizations like Quantum Foundation, Lost Tree Charitable Foundation, and Community Foundation, FoundCare staff conducted mobile pop-up testing to underserved communities throughout Palm Beach County. Since the onset, FoundCare has provided 5,474 tests.
“People have always looked to FoundCare to meet their healthcare needs” said Dr. Rik Pavlescak, Chief Operating Officer of FoundCare. “Throughout this unprecedented health crisis, FoundCare continues to be committed to its patients and the community-at-large. FoundCare will continue to provide access to care, both during the good times and during the most difficult times.”
FoundCare continues to offer both telehealth and in person visits. Appointments for new and existing patients can be scheduled by calling 561-432-5849.
FoundCare, Inc., celebrating 35 years in the community, uses a sliding fee scale based on household size and income, and no one is turned away for inability to pay. With several locations throughout Palm Beach County, FoundCare’s services include pediatric and adult primary care, women’s health services, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, dentistry, pharmacy, laboratory services, and x-rays. FoundCare’s mission is to fulfill unmet health care and social service needs of individuals and families in Palm Beach County.
For more information about FoundCare visit www.foundcare.org or call 561-HEALTHY (432-5849).