WHASC opens drive-thru screening, testing

  • Published
  • 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- --  

Beginning Friday, March 20, the 59th Medical Wing will implement a COVID-19 drive-thru screening process at Wilford Hall to help identify people with COVID-19 indicators before they enter the hospital, reducing the health risk to our beneficiaries, visitors, staff and family members. 

As you proceed to Wilford Hall, you will see signage requesting you self-screen for COVID-19 indicators, which include fever, cough or shortness of breath; recent travel; or contact with someone with COVID-19. If you have any of these indicators, you will be directed via personnel and signage to the screening area, where medical personnel will determine if you need further evaluation or if you should proceed home for self-care. 

The drive-thru screening will be open Monday - Friday from 9 a.m to 2 p.m for patients and personnel who have self-evaluated and fit the criteria for further evaluation by a medical professional. If you are experiencing symptoms outside of the drive-thru hours, you should report to an emergency room. 

If you do not meet any of the criteria listed above, you do not need to enter the screening area and may proceed directly to your appointment or duty location. 

For those beneficiaries located closer to Brooke Army Medical Center, a COVID-19 drive-thru screening is also available there Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Please keep in mind that we have closed all but the A Wing, Family Emergency Center and Garden Level entrances to better direct our patients and staff and enhance safety. 

If you are feeling ill, the best course of action is to call in before coming in to reduce the risk to yourself and others. Beneficiaries can contact the Nurse Advice Line (NAL) at MHSNurseAdviceLine.com for a web or video chat, or call 1-800-TRICARE (874-2273), option 1. Beneficiaries also can call the Consult Appointment Management Office (CAMO) at 210-916-9900, which can offer in-person appointments or even virtual appointments from your own home. 

For staff members, if you or your family members are feeling sick, please stay home and contact your supervisor or chain of command for further direction. 

We will continue to take proactive steps, working alongside our military and community partners, to both contain the spread and mitigate the impact of the virus, while maintaining our vital military healthcare and readiness missions. As this situation is rapidly evolving, we will be sure to share any updates and appreciate your cooperation, commitment, patience and support!