Oakbend Medical Group is launching the first COVID-19 testing site in Fort Bend County.Effective Thursday, March 26, 20 20, OakBend Medical Group will conduct COVID-19 Testing if, and only if, the patient meets the following criteria:• Initial criteria for the COVID-19 Testing will require a Telehealth visit:• A telehealth visit will be instituted by calling 281-238-7870• Our Medical staff will schedule a visit via tele health• The patient will be screened during the Telehealth visit for criteria that suggests a possible positive COVID-1• Criteria for COVID-19 Testing:• Patients must have symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) AN D/OR have one of the following risk factors:• Older than 65 years old• People who have serious underlying health conditions (heart disease, diabetes, lung disease/asthma, HIV, immunocompromised)• Healthcare workers with suspected exposure• COVID-19 testing is 8 am – 1 pm with the numbers of tests limited• All tests must have an order from the telehealth visit• Test Results take 24-48 hours• COVID-19 testing will be charged to patient insurance for patients that have Medicare, Medicaid or Commercial insurance. For self-pay patients the cost of the test is $100 at the time of service. Patients m ust pay by credit/ debit card prior to arriving for the COVID-19 testing.• The patient will be given instructions by the provider’s office to come to the testingCounty Judge KP George, while making this announcement, said in a press release:"We are proud to support this effort for the well-being of our residents. This is yet another example of the great work of one of our major Fort Bend community partners, OakBend Medical Group.”Until now, Fort Bend County Health and Human Services has been referring Corona virus cases to Harris County."Fort Bend County residents can now access the regional testing sites set-up by Harris County Public Health and Houston Health Department. The regional testing sites are for people with symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Those with symptoms have to obtain a unique code before going to the testing site. If you show up at the site without a unique code, you will NOT be tested.Screening Process:Access the online screening too, www.checkforcorona.com.If you cannot access the internet, call 832-927-7575 or 832-393-4220."The county health and human services today reported 8 new cases, bringing the total to 54.The county today launched Covid response hub with current case data, resources, and preventive information for public and media use. The response hub will host all information and closures related to the COVID-19 response within Fort Bend County.“As the numbers continue to climb, the individual data is interesting but not as useful as the aggregate data. COVID19 is affecting all ages, genders and is found in those who have traveled as well as those who have not. Our graphic representation presents a better picture of what is currently occurring in our county,” said Dr. Jacquelyn Minter, Director of Fort Bend County Health & Human Services and Local Health Authority.