There is now coronavirus testing available at Westmorland General Hospital (WGH) for key workers defined by the Government as crucial to the response to the pandemic.
See the UK Governments list of Key Workers here.
It is essential that the employer of the key worker contacts the COVID testing centre before they attend. This is to ensure that the meet the following essential eligibility testing criteria:
- The individual is a key worker who is self-isolating because they are showing coronavirus symptoms
- The individual is a key worker currently self-isolating because members of their household or are showing symptoms - including children between the ages of 5 and 18
Please note the COVID testing centre at WGH can be used for testing children between the ages of 5 and 18 if they are the reason key workers are self-isolating. However, all children under 12 years of age must be tested by a parent or guardian. Children aged 12 to 18 may complete the test on themselves or with the help of an adult parent or guardian.
Those nominated for testing must be able to drive to the testing centre or be driven by a family member. They must not arrive by foot, bus or taxi.
In order to arrange testing, employers of key workers should contact the COVID testing centre at WGH on 01539 715630, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm. Someone from the centre will then call the individual to arrange a suitable time for testing.
When attending COVID testing centre:
- You must arrive on site by car – you cannot take a bus, taxi or arrive by foot
- The testing centre can be found outside the Dunmail Unit. When entering the hospital grounds via the main entrance; take the first left and follow the red signs to the COVID testing centre.
- You must remain in your car at all times with the windows up until told otherwise
- When you arrive, you need to confirm your name and date of birth. Please leave your car windows closed
- The test involves a throat and nose swab and the trained staff will give you directions for this and the next steps at the time
Please note that this testing centre is just for key workers who do not work in the health and care sector. These individuals will continue to be tested using the existing service via the Trust’s Occupational Health team.
If you need any further information, please contact the COVID Coordination Centre on 01524 584128.