Brentwood COVID-19 Test Site Workers Praised For Dedication

Press release from the Town of Islip:

Jan. 25, 2021

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter visited the Town’s Brentwood Recreation Center COVID-19 test site recently, to show her appreciation to the Good Samaritan Hospital nurses and nurse practitioners who have been conducting COVID testing since the site opened November 18th. Joining the Supervisor was Ruth Hennessey, Good Samaritan President and Steve Castleton, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army.

Steve Castleton presented nurses with a Military Challenge Medal symbolizing their exceptional work on the front lines during the pandemic. The test site is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 1 pm to 5 pm by appointment only. “This site not only serves as a wonderful opportunity to be able to test folks, but to also educate. With this horrible disease, we know that education is so very important,” said Ruth Hennessey. Appointments can be made by calling (631) 376-4444.

The rate of positivity since the Brentwood site opened has increased from 10.4% in November to 15.1% in January, and one day’s testing hit 26%. “The response to these percentages is our continued effort to test,” said Supervisor Carpenter. “We must continue to test and contact trace in order to help identify positive results and stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community. The earlier we identify a positive case, the sooner people can quarantine,” added the Supervisor. Approximately 1,100 tests have been conducted thus far, with an average of 50/60 per day. Results are available in two days through the Good Samaritan MyChart Patient Portal.

Supervisor Carpenter is urging everyone to wear a face covering, maintain good hand hygiene and social distance.

This press release was produced by the Town of Islip. The views expressed here are the author's own.