INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — Help is on the way for some of the most vulnerable neighborhoods in Indianapolis hard hit by COVID-19.
The Marion County Health Director announced "walk-up" and "drive thru" testing for local "hotspots" starting next week.
It's designed to address alarming health disparities uncovered in state and county data.
Dr. Virginia Caine said people living in the 46218 zip code are suffering disproportionately from the coronavirus.
Based on county data, those harmed most are the elderly, men and African-Americans.
The first area targeted stretches between Dr. Andrew J. Brown to 38th street and 16th Street to Arlington. The actual testing will take place at Eastern Star Church, which is on a bus line and is a community mainstay.
Pastor Jeffrey Johnson said he's not surprised to learn the 46218 zip code is impacted. His church has been a part of the community for 25 years.
Johnson told WTHR, "I've seen the disparities."
He said much of the area is a food desert, and the average income is $25,000.
"I'm grateful Dr. Virginia Caine reached out," he said.
The testing site is exactly what Indiana's Black Legislative Caucus asked for in a letter to Governor Holcomb. Statewide data revealed African-Americans, who make up just 10 percent of the population in Indiana, accounting for 20 percent of the state's COVID-19 deaths. The Marion County numbers are even more alarming.
According to health department data, African-Americans are 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized and 2 times more likely to die from COVID-19.
Caine says the testing is free and will not require a doctor's referral.
The health department wants those with symptoms, compromised immunity, or essential workers like grocery store clerks, drivers and food service employees to take advantage of the tests being made available by IU Health.
"It would be extraordinarily dangerous trying to return too quickly," said Mayor Joe Hogsett.
"We need to identify where our challenges are and control those outbreaks," added City County Council President, Vop Osili.
The 46218 zipcode is just the start.
Dr. Caine says the lack of test supplies prevented Marion County from doing testing until now. She says without IU Health, it would not be possible.
Testing times will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 1 to 7 p.m. next week depending on the day.
People with symptoms of the Coronavirus including fever, dry cough, or shortness of breath can call 317-221-5515 or visit www.marionhealth.org/indycovid. A survey will be live on the website soon, and you will need to complete the registration and health screening to receive an appointment before visiting the testing location. All COVID-19 tests conducted at Eastern Star Church will be conducted by appointment only.
Additional testing sites will roll out in other hotspots over the next two weeks.
According to the CDC, if a person tests positive for COVID-19, they must:
- Stay home
- Separate themselves from other people and pets in the home
- Monitor symptoms for any signs of the infection’s progression
- If they experience trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, or bluish lips or face, the should seek medical attention immediately.