To help meet the growing needs of the community during the pandemic, SamCare-Express locations in Albany and Corvallis will pause their usual health care services to provide COVID-19 testing and vaccination, starting Monday, Jan. 17.
Testing:
SamCare Express - Albany will transition to only offering COVID-19 testing by appointment. Only PCR tests will be offered, with results usually taking one to three days. Appointments can be scheduled online at samhealth.org/ExpressAlbany.
Vaccination:
SamCare Express – Corvallis will transition to only offering COVID-19 vaccines, both Pfizer and Moderna, by appointment. Walk-ins may sometimes be available, but appointments are strongly encouraged. Appointments can be scheduled online at samhealth.org/ExpressCorvallis.
“We hope to reduce or eliminate wait times and serve more patients with these changes,” said Amie Bodi, associate vice president of acute care for Samaritan. “The testing option at SamCare Express - Albany is great for anyone who needs testing, but does not have concerning symptoms requiring medical attention. At this time, we are doing everything we can to maintain the capacity of our urgent care and walk-in locations for patients who need medical care.”
Anyone needing medical attention is encouraged to reach out to their primary care provider or visit the nearest urgent care or walk-in clinic for assistance. Only those with life-threatening conditions should visit a hospital emergency department.
COVID-19 testing is also available by appointment for those experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have a known exposure at Samaritan’s drive-through testing locations in Albany, Corvallis and Lebanon. Visit samhealth.org/COVIDTesting for more information and to schedule a test.
Samaritan continues to recommend basic precautions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, including wearing a well-fitting face mask, avoiding large gatherings and isolating away from others if you have cold or flu-like symptoms. Vaccination is advised as the best defense against severe illness or hospitalization from the virus. For vaccination opportunities in the region, visit samhealth.org/GetTheVaccine.