NEW ULM — New Ulm Medical Center (NUMC) announced they will offer appointments-only curbside COVID-19 testing starting Monday, June 8.

NUMC can offer this service due to increased access to testing kits and positive reaction from our patients using curbside lab service.

NUMC Director of Operations Carisa Buegler said NUMC has wanted to offer this service for some time, but it was not available until now.

“It offers a lot of convenience to patients,” Buegler said. It also reduces the number of people with COVID-19 symptoms from entering the building, by allowing patients to remain in their cars for testing.

Patients who believe they may be experiencing symptoms can call 217-5011 to schedule a virtual visit with a provider to determine the need for testing.

Buegler said the reason for the virtual appointment is to check the severity of the patient’s symptoms and determine if the symptoms are signs of a different illness. Curbside testing will be available 2:30 to 5 p.m. on weekdays.

If a COVID-19 test is determined to be needed, the patient will need to call again to schedule the curbside appointment. NUMC will attempt to schedule a curbside test the same day. Patients will be directed to come to the hospital entrance for the test. Signage will direct them to the correct location. Curbside testing can be done within five minutes. Test results should be available within 24 to 48 hours.

An appointment for curbside testing is required. Anyone without an appointment will be directed to call and make an appointment with a provider. Drive-ups or walk-ins are not available.