Ames Today

A new testing facility for the COVID-19 virus opened on Aug. 31 in Ames, a drive-thru clinic medical staffers said would expand services in this part of the Midwest.

“A lot of effort has gone into getting the Test Iowa Clinic in Ames, and we’re pleased to be able to provide this resource,” Steve Sullivan, director of marketing and community relations at the Mary Greeley Medical Center said on Iowa State University’s website. “Mary Greeley worked with several community partners to secure the Test Iowa Clinic, including the City of Ames, Iowa State, McFarland Clinic, Story County, Story County Medical Center and Primary Health Care.”  

Located at 2503 South Loop Drive, the facility will be open from 12:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

People seeking a coronavirus test can do so from the convenience of their cars.

The report said prior to the new opening the closest virus test was in Des Moines or Marshalltown.

Individuals who want a test must complete a pre-assessment prior to the test available at the Test Iowa website. Those who qualify will be given instructions on how to proceed, the report stated.

Dr. John Paschen, chair of the Storey County Board of Health, said the new testing site will be a plus for residents, medical doctors and staff.

“We are all in favor of a Test Iowa Clinic and welcome the increased accessibility we will have in the county to test for COVID-19,” he said. “With our current increase in cases, this will be helpful to guide isolation and mitigation measures.”

Students at Iowa State will also be able to test at the site. The report added that supplies for the facility come from the state of Iowa and the results are processed through the state’s Hygenic Lab.