Gusciora Welcomes Expanded Testing In Trenton

Mayor Praises NJ Health Commish Directive Eliminating Need for Prescription

Trenton N.J. – Mayor W. Reed Gusciora welcomed expanded COVID-19 testing in the Capital City with the County’s move of their Main Testing Site into Trenton from Quakerbridge Mall as well as the NJ Department of Health Commissioner’s new Directive that people will no longer need a prescription to obtain a Covid-19 test.

“Expanded testing makes it so much easier for Trenton residents to obtain a free Covid-19 test,” said Gusciora.  “In effect, we are now saying to come on down to a test site near you!”

Gusciora felt that too many residents were not taking advantage of the City’s testing sites because of the perception it was too costly or difficult to obtain a prescription.  In addition, the mayor’s office had complaints that if the person did not have health insurance they did not know where they could go to obtain a prescription.  To date, the City has tested 243 residents at their testing sites.

“I applaud Commissioner Persichelli for relaxing the requirements for testing as this will go a long way for more Trenton residents to obtain a Covid-19 test,” said Gusciora.  “Under the new Directive, anyone who ‘may’ have been exposed to Covid or who had been in close contact with someone who has tested positive is eligible to receive a test.”

Gusciora was especially pleased that residents or workers in congregate living settings, group homes or homeless shelters would also be eligible for free testing.  The mayor indicated that anyone who is interested could call Henry J. Austin Center at (609) 278-5900 to set up an appointment for a free Covid-19 test.  The City has four (4) test sites in each ward and tests Monday through Thursday.  In addition, the County’s main drive-through testing site is located in the parking lot in front of 640 South Broad Street, the County’s office building.

“I urge anyone who feels they need a Covid-19 test regardless of resident status or lack of symptoms to call for an appointment,” concluded Gusciora.  “Through expanded testing we hope to flatten the curve and keep it there for the duration of the pandemic.”