COVID-19 Testing Information

Drive-through COVID-19 Testing

  • The SRC BOCC approved the CARES Act framework which includes contracting with Sacred Heart Hospital to establish two testing sites to test up to 300 people per day, five days a week. 
  • IMPORTANT: All individuals wanting to be tested MUST CALL the Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart Screening Call Center at (850) 746-2684 in advance. The appointment-based testing is the most efficient use of time, helps avoid waiting for hours in line and provides for quicker (as soon as 48 hours) turnaround.
  • Ascension Medical Group Sacred Heart was the first organization in the area to begin widespread testing for the coronavirus. Since March 16, Ascension Sacred Heart's drive-thru testing center has provided nasal swab tests to more than 20,000 people in the area.
  • No out of pocket cost or copay will be collected but bring photo ID and any insurance cards as insurance will be submitted.
  • Remain in your vehicle for the duration of the process.
  • Testing will nasal swabs. 
  • This is not a test for antibodies. 
  • For further questions, contact the Department of Health (850-564-2307). 
DateTimeLocationAddressDetails
Open until further notice9 a.m. - 5 p.m.University of West Floridaparking lot SP2 (near the East Sports Complex)UWF testing site is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (weather permitting). Self-swabbing is available by appointment. Ages 5-17 require an appointment. Appointments can be made by the following methods: doineedacovid19test.com or by calling, 1-800-635-8611. FL ID required for adults.

Every Mon., Wed. and Fri. until further notice9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Milton Community Center5629 Byrom St. in MiltonYou MUST CALL to register: (850) 746-2684
Every Tues. and Thurs. until further notice9 a.m. - 1 p.m.Tiger Point Community Center1370 Tiger Park Ln. in Gulf BreezeYou MUST CALL to register: (850) 746-2684


What to expect at community-based testing sites

  • You must arrive in a personal vehicle.
  • Air conditioning must work.
  • All people must be seated next to operating window.
  • Each vehicle will be greeted and directed by personnel in full medical protective gear.
  • All passengers must stay inside vehicles from arrival to departure.
  • Limit the people in your vehicle to those needing testing (maximum of five).
  • Your temperature will be checked using a no-touch thermometer.

Each person who meets site testing criteria will be asked for the following: 

  • Photo ID with current address (place on the dashboard)
  • Health insurance card (everyone will be tested regardless of insurance coverage) - there is no out-of-pocket cost
  • Healthcare facility employee or first responder ID/badge (if applicable)

Things to consider:

  • There are no bathrooms.
  • There is no food bank distribution at this location.
  • There may be significant wait times.

Testing:

  • A healthcare provider in personal protective equipment will provide you with instructions.
  • You will be given a tissue to blow your nose and will need to keep your tissue to dispose on your own. 
  • A soft swab will be inserted deep into your nose to get the necessary sample. This may be slightly uncomfortable; however, the test is quick and should take less than a minute. 
  • Once the test is complete, you will move to the final station.
  • You will be given information to take with you on what to do while awaiting test results.
  • Keep the instruction sheet until you get your test results.
  • Depart/exit community-based testing site.
  • Follow the instructions on the paper provided by the community-based testing site. Continue to monitor and record symptoms.