HUMBOLDT PARK — Norwegian American Hospital in Humboldt Park will begin testing for COVID-19 this week.
The hospital at 1044 N. Francisco Ave. is opening up testing at 2 p.m. Tuesday.
The tests are by appointment only for patients ages 18 and older in response to the “disproportionate number of COVID-19 infections and related deaths in underserved communities with high minority populations,” according to a news release.
People who have coronavirus symptoms can call the hospital directly at 773-292-8363 from 2-4 p.m. Monday through Friday to schedule an appointment.
Norwegian is the first medical facility in Humboldt Park to offer COVID-19 testing, according to Cesar Rolon, who handles media requests for Norwegian American Hospital.
“We now have a hospital on the Northwest Side of Chicago that will service our Latino and immigrant community,” Rolon said in a news release.
The testing is being done in partnership with Gov. JB Pritzker’s office, Rincon Family Services and the Puerto Rican Cultural Center.
Norwegian has been offering telehealth support during the coronavirus pandemic. The hospital also offers low-income patients additional support including care packages and mental health counseling.
The hospital received a large donation of hand sanitizer and cleaning solutions from White Glove Sanitation Chemicals and Rincon Family Services, according to the news release.
Jose Sanchez, president of Norwegian American Hospital, is slated to lead a press conference 2 p.m. Tuesday to make the testing announcement. Free bottles of hand sanitizer will be available to the community during the event.
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