Holzapfel, McGuckin and Catalano Provide Guidelines for OCC COVID-19 Testing Center

On Monday March 30th, Ocean County College will open a drive-thru testing center for COVID-19 available only to residents who live within Ocean County. Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano of the 10th Legislative District are offering tips and information to those looking to get tested at this new location.

Senator Holzapfel and Assemblymen McGuckin and Catalano announced details plans to for coronavirus testing at the new drive-thru center set to open Monday in at Ocean County College. (CDC)

“We are pleased to announce the first testing center for the novel coronavirus opening at Ocean County College on Monday,” stated Senator Holzapfel. “A major difference between this testing center and others that have opened across the state is residents must provide a prescription from a doctor and proof of residency in order to be tested. We are hoping with the new procedures in place it will drastically reduce long lines and wait times at this location.”

Those looking to get tested will also need to register ahead of time with the Ocean County Health Department on their website in order to be tested. Residents can do so at www.ochd.org. Testing centers in other parts of the state were being forced to close only hours after opening due to the overwhelming amount of people arriving for tests.

“These new guidelines will filter out those who need immediate attention versus those who can stay home, rest and heal on their own,” added Assemblyman McGuckin. “This process will eliminate those who are experiencing the flu or allergies and only allow those who are symptomatic and are authorized by a doctor to be tested. We must preserve our resources and limit the strain on our healthcare system.”

Those who qualify for testing can enter Ocean County College from the Hooper Avenue entrance. The site is scheduled to be open until 3 p.m. daily, weather permitting.

“These are unprecedented times and we are thankful to all entities that came together to make this testing center available to our residents. There are a limited amount of resources and while we understand everyone is under an enormous amount of stress and their symptoms can be heightened during a time like this, it’s imperative that only the most in need or at risk patients be tested,” concluded Assemblyman Catalano.