The Department of Health in Marion County is moving its drive-through COVID-19 testing operations to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion beginning Aug. 11 and changing its testing process. People who would like to be tested will no longer need to first make an appointment; they will be able to be tested at the new site on a first-come, first-served basis.
“The appointment-based process allowed us to avoid long wait times that people using many other testing sites in the state experienced,” said Florida Department of Health in Marion County Administrator Mark Lander. “However, we routinely had more than 100 people not show up for their appointments, which meant people who wanted testing were unable to get timely appointments. It also led to a waste of resources when we had to schedule and then cancel more than 100 lab orders each day. We will be able to be more efficient with our resources this way, while testing everyone who truly desires to be tested.”
Testing will be held each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8 to 10 am. at the Livestock Pavilion (2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala). People who would like to be tested can line their vehicles up starting at 7:30 a.m. on each testing day. Testing will run through 10 a.m. or until the day’s available samples are all used, whichever comes first. To be tested, individuals should bring a valid photo ID; minors under age 18 will only be tested if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
People should be prepared for to stay in their vehicles while waiting for testing; restroom facilities will not be available. Only people who are being tested should be in the vehicle, with the exception of parents, guardians or caregivers. No pets are permitted in the vehicle during tests.
For more information, call the Marion County COVID-19 Hotline at 352-644-2590.