Advertisement

Hillsborough sets new phone number for coronavirus testing

The change is intended to curb wait times and dropped calls
 
John Foss a nurse with the Pinellas County School Board prepares to administer a COVID-19 test. In Hillsborough County, tests are offered ats even sites and appointments can be scheduled by calling a new toll-free number., (888) 513-6321
John Foss a nurse with the Pinellas County School Board prepares to administer a COVID-19 test. In Hillsborough County, tests are offered ats even sites and appointments can be scheduled by calling a new toll-free number., (888) 513-6321 [ BOYZELL HOSEY | Times ]
Published June 23, 2020|Updated June 23, 2020

TAMPA — Hillsborough County opened a new, toll-free telephone line dedicated exclusively for scheduling COVID-19 testing.

The move is intended to curb wait times and reduce dropped calls. The new number is (888) 513-6321, effective immediately. Call center hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

In a released statement, the county said an unprecedented call volume recently had increased wait times for callers. It added more staff to handle calls, and said the new number is expected to alleviate technical issues and dropped calls.

Related: An explosion of testng causing delays

Residents can undergo testing at one of seven locations and the County also offers in-home testing for homebound residents or to people without access to transportation.

Appointments are required for the free testing. No doctor’s referral is needed, and insurance is not required.

The test sites are Lee Davis Community Resource Center, 3402 N. 22nd St., Tampa; Plant City Community Resource Center, 307 N. Michigan Ave., Plant City; SouthShore Community Resource Center, 201 14th Ave. SE, Ruskin; Suncoast Community Health Centers, 313 S. Lakewood Drive, Brandon; Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa; Redeemer Lutheran Church, 701 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center and Wimauma Opportunity Center, 5128 SR 674.

• •

Tampa Bay Times coronavirus coverage

HOW CORONAVIRUS IS SPREADING IN FLORIDA: Find the latest numbers for your county, city or zip code.

THE CORONAVIRUS SCRAPBOOK: We collected your stories, pictures, songs, recipes, journals and more to show what life has been like during the pandemic.

SO YOU WANT TO LEAVE YOUR HOUSE? Read these 10 tips first

UNEMPLOYMENT Q&A: We answer your questions about Florida unemployment benefits

GET THE DAYSTARTER MORNING UPDATE: Sign up to receive the most up-to-date information.

HAVE A TIP?: Send us confidential news tips

We’re working hard to bring you the latest news on the coronavirus in Florida. This effort takes a lot of resources to gather and update. If you haven’t already subscribed, please consider buying a print or digital subscription.