At Monday’s sunshine meeting, Commissioner Mike Mena asked his colleagues and the manager thoughts on opening-up the COVID-19 testing site on LeJeune in front of Havana Harry’s. Mena said the city agreed when they closed the site that if cases surged again and there was a need that the city could re-open the site.
Mayor Raul Valdes Fauli was apprehensive and cited that when the site was open many residents made appointments and did not show. Mena suggested the city pass-through costs to residents to make it equitable. The commission agreed and the manager is to explore options.
However, the site was closed as the number of reported cases in Coral Gables was reduced to an average of 1 per day. Currently, the City has seen its largest increase, with 103 new reported cases over the last 6 days.
There was no discussion or foresight on contact tracing or antibody testing.
I would like to see the testing site reopened. There could be a fee for people who don’t show up. Or just charge for the test and if you don’t show up, you forfeit your money.
It is unconscionable that people who want to test can’t get one quickly and get results quickly as well. I think this is a big part of the problem. If people were able to verify that they are infected, hopefully they would act responsibly and stay home and inform contacts.
This could dramatically cut the number of cases.
Appointments were missed because they were offered 2 weeks out. I know from my personal experience.
People want immediate appointments if suspecting COVID. Immediate appointments should be provided upon request. Doing so reducing the amount of possible increased exposure. Why not a open appointment-free daily window for testing during weekdays?
The faster a test can me administered the more people will show up.
I think it is a good idea to offer testing. I would ask the Mayor how many did not show up for scheduled appointments out of how many appointments. I agree with Commissioner Mena to pass on cost to those who cannot provide/ document good reason. Doctors offices do it all the time!
Smart move, smart decision.
if the numbers keep going up this would be very helpful for us who live in Coral Gables