Health system, elected officials collaborate on vital service for vulnerable population

Attention: As of July 7, this location is now closed.

Virtua Health will open a coronavirus screening and testing center on the campus of Virtua Willingboro Hospital starting Monday, April 20, at noon.

The testing site, which will be open specifically to Willingboro residents and to those referred by Virtua Health physicians, will be open Monday through Friday from noon until 4:00 p.m. Testing is by appointment and by walk-up for community members. Those without appointments will undergo a screening by a provider to determine if testing is appropriate.

The opening comes after productive and collaborative conversations between Dennis Pullin, president and CEO of Virtua, and Senator Troy Singleton. In addition, U.S. Representative Andy Kim has also been a compelling advocate for additional testing in the county.

“We were seeing an alarming number of coronavirus cases in Willingboro, significantly higher than other parts of Burlington County, and we all just knew we had to do something,” said Singleton.

The make-up of the 31,000-person community includes a significant number of seniors, many retired veterans, as well as numerous commuters who travel into New York and Philadelphia, many who are essential workers. The population is also comprised of approximately 60% African Americans, which early statistics point to as being disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

“While the world is being asked to social distance, it is more important than ever that we come together to face this pandemic and find solutions where we can,” said Pullin. “Adding this testing site as we learn of a higher incidence of the virus here in this community is a responsible and proactive way to accelerate identifying who has the virus and who needs isolation or treatment.” 

This is Virtua’s third ambulatory COVID-19 testing site beyond its testing within its five hospitals and seven emergency rooms.

“This is simply welcome news for the residents of Willingboro and all of us who want to help slow the spread of this virus,” added Singleton. “This new location is near a bus stop, which is great since testing locations often just have drive-through capabilities and can be difficult to access for those without a car. It will provide an easy, convenient way for individuals to drive in or walk-up and have samples collected for quick COVID-19 testing. We are very grateful that Virtua Health is serving this critical need and allowing more people to get tested more conveniently.”