The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) will be conducting free COVID-19 testing in Hartsville at the Byerly Park Sports Complex located at 700 Russell Road on Monday, May 18, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Testing is available at this mobile site in a drive-through or walk-up format for those interested in being tested.
The South Carolina General Assembly adopted legislation this week sending $25 million to help with statewide COVID-19 testing. Two local legislators, House Speaker Jay Lucas and Senator Gerald Malloy, were instrumental in securing the Hartsville facility for testing. “Securing access to testing in smaller and rural communities across the state has remained my top priority,” said Speaker Jay Lucas. “I am gratified that MUSC is offering free COVID-19 testing in my hometown of Hartsville, as extensive testing is key to defeating this virus. I am confident that today marks a significant step in the right direction towards recovery and a return to normalcy.”
Senator Gerald Malloy said, “Widespread testing of COVID-19 is critical to identify and treat infected individuals in order to prevent its spread. Accurate diagnosis of those infected is the cornerstone of our ability to make the best healthcare decisions for the individual and for Darlington County. Additionally, it helps frontline healthcare workers to be able to plan, prepare, and respond more effectively. We are going to be aggressive in Darlington County to protect our citizens and return our County to its role of being an economic leader in the Pee Dee area.”
Testing is open to anyone that is interested in receiving it, symptomatic or not. Drive-through testing is recommended, but walk-up testing will also be available. Vehicular traffic should enter the complex from Russell Road. Hartsville Police Department will direct traffic through the complex and to the tents for testing. Pedestrian traffic should enter from Washington Street to the tent that will be servicing the individuals that walk up to the site. Prescreening is not required, and the cost is free to patients. Patients will be contacted within seventy-two hours with the results of their test.
The City of Hartsville appreciates the dedication of our local delegation including Speaker Lucas, Senator Malloy, and Representative Williams to bring this testing to Hartsville.