SRL Diagnostics Launches the First Drive-Thru for COVID 19 Sample Collection in Chandigarh

By 121 News

Chandigarh May 18, 2020:-In an effort to protect healthcare workers and promote social distancing, SRL Diagnostics – one of India's leading diagnostics chain commenced the first COVID-19 drive-thru sample collection site in Chandigarh today. The drive-through site is located at SCO NO 24, Sector 11-D, Chandigarh and the bookings can be made using SRL Diagnostics' dedicated phone lines+91 7626942525/7973278151/9592101876 or the toll-free number 1800 222000.
Sharing details about the recent initiative, Anindya Chowdhury, Regional COO – North & East, said that with the growing numbers of active COVID cases in the city, a drive through facility was much needed as it could cater to the patients without having people step out of their cars. Drive-thru concept is being used globally to fast-track sample collection for Covid-19 and also makes it safer for the patient and the healthcare worker. We already have our drive-through sites operational in Gurgaon and Mumbai. After receiving a positive feedback from the patients in these cities, we thought of replicating this model in Chandigarh now.
The drive-thru procedure is simple, the patient remains in the passenger seat – next to the driver or in the left rear seat, the nasal / throat swab sample is taken through the car window – the entire process (drive-in entry to exit) takes about five to ten minutes. This sample is then sent to the SRL Reference Laboratory in Gurgaon (approved by ICMR) for testing under temperature controlled conditions as specified by ICMR. The report will be released within 48 hours of sample collection.
He added that the nation currently is grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic and we stand by the government in fighting this battle together. Extensive testing coupled with proactive social distancing and the ongoing lockdown will help to curb the spread of this virus.
The documents required for the testing entails a duly filled ICMR form by a qualified physician, doctor's prescription seeking COVID-19 test and the patient's Aadhaar Card. All documentation will be collected and verified over electronic medium prior to fixing up the appointment time for the sample collection. The diagnostic chain is also planning to come up with similar facilities in other cities too.