Infirmary Health has opened three appointment-only COVID-19 testing sites in Baldwin County this week, giving area residents a structured way to get screened for the coronavirus as case counts continue to climb across the Gulf Coast.
Rather than allowing walk-up testing, the health system is directing anyone who suspects they may be infected to call a dedicated hotline first. Residents who believe they are showing common symptoms of the virus, including fever, fatigue and a persistent dry cough, are asked to dial 251-341-CV19 (2819) to speak directly with a registered nurse before any testing appointment is scheduled.
The screening hotline is staffed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily from March 22 through March 27, according to Infirmary Health. Callers are asked a series of questions to determine whether their symptoms and potential exposure history meet criteria set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing.
Testing appointments are available to residents of both Baldwin and Mobile counties who are at least 18 years old and can present a valid photo ID. Officials say the age and identification requirements are meant to keep the process orderly as demand for testing continues to grow statewide.
Patients who are cleared for testing under CDC guidelines will be given a specific appointment time and testing location rather than reporting to a general site. The appointment-only model is designed to limit crowding, protect medical staff and preserve limited supplies of testing materials and personal protective equipment.
Once a patient arrives for a scheduled appointment, they are instructed to remain inside their vehicle for the duration of the visit. If a swab is needed, medical staff will administer the test through the car window, minimizing direct contact and reducing the risk of exposure for both patients and health care workers.
After the sample is collected, patients receive instructions directly from their medical provider on next steps, including how and when they will be notified of results and how to safely quarantine at home while awaiting them.
The rollout of appointment-based testing reflects a broader shift among Gulf Coast health providers as they work to expand access to testing while conserving protective equipment for front-line staff. Health officials continue to urge residents who have not been screened by a nurse or cleared for testing to avoid showing up at hospitals or clinics without an appointment, both to protect themselves and to keep emergency resources available for the most urgent cases.
Residents with questions about symptoms, exposure risk or the appointment process are encouraged to call the hotline directly rather than visiting a hospital or urgent care facility in person.