The Peru Gazette

Plattsburgh, July 21, 2021. As New York State reduces its large-scale COVID-19 testing and vaccination operations in the North Country, the Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) and University of Vermont Health Network-Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) will work together to continue those services for Clinton County residents. 

“The large-scale COVID-19 testing and vaccination operations offered by the state during the COVID-19 pandemic have been an incredible asset to our community,” stated John Kanoza, Director of Public Health in Clinton County. “With the state starting to scale back these services, we will step in to ensure they remain accessible to our community members.” 

Individuals may still get tested at the CVPH COVID-19 Testing Center located at 295 New York Road from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., seven days a week. Patients must have an order for the test from their health care provider, and their health insurance carrier will be billed. Hospital officials note that as they continue to refine the testing process to help meet the needs of the community, changes may occur. Beginning July 28th, free COVID-19 testing will be offered at CCHD approximately three days per week. 

“The intention of testing at CCHD is to be a gap service,” explained Mr. Kanoza. “We have a number of providers in our area who are already offering testing. Our testing is intended for asymptomatic individuals (individuals who are not experiencing any symptoms), those without primary care physicians, and those without insurance.” 

After those options have been exhausted, requesting testing at CCHD is appropriate. Testing will be offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm outside the Health Department offices, located at 133 Margaret Street in Plattsburgh. The exact testing location will be at the Court Street entrance with the ramp. While the weather allows, residents will remain in their vehicles while testing is conducted. Appointments will be required, however day-of appointments will be available. 

“Testing is a critical public health tool in limiting the spread of the virus in our communities,” CVPH Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer Lisa Mark, M.D. explained. “While much progress has been made, the virus has not been eliminated. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, it is still vital for you to get tested and follow the advice of your health care provider.” 

“In addition to our new testing procedures, we will continue to offer COVID-19 vaccinations every Thursday from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon,” added Mr. Kanoza. “At this time we are equipped to offer both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines at these clinics.” 

More information on these services can be found by visiting: 

 Clinton County Health Department: www.clintonhealth.org/covid19. 

 New York State: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov 

 U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: 

https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/community-based-testing-sites/index.html 

To register for testing or vaccinations at Clinton County Health Department, please call 518-565-4848.