ST. JOSEPH, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — COVID-19 testing has become a top priority for health officials, and a new round of funding from the federal government will likely make that job easier for area clinics.
U.S. Representative Fred Upton announced on Friday that he had secured $1.7 million for coronavirus testing to be used by four Southwest Michigan healthcare providers within the 6th congressional district.
The Family Health Center in Kalamazoo will be receiving $584,749 to assist with its drive-thru testing program.
Multiple drive-thru testing clinics have been held by the health center since mid-April, with another one planned for May 14th at Kalamazoo Central High School where pre-screened patients can get tested without leaving their vehicle.
A released statement by Upton’s office says that additional funding will go towards Intercare Community Health Network in Bangor, Covered Bridge Healthcare of St. Joseph County in Centreville, and Lakeland Immediate Care Center in Cassopolis.
“I am delighted to see our community health centers receive such a substantial amount of funding that will help them expand their COVID-19 testing capabilities,” said Upton.
“In our ongoing fight against the coronavirus, we know we need to be able to test more folks so we can better identify cases and provide effective treatments more quickly. Community health centers are on the front lines, and this funding will allow them to help better protect the health and safety of all southwest Michigan.”
The announcement follows two earlier rounds of funding for community health centers in March and April, with the current distribution of money authorized by the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act passed by congress in a broader COVID-19 relief package.
