Keeping the front lines hydrated

Sam Zuege, Norton Healthcare’s Director of Sports Medicine Clinical Services, said his team works non-stop at the site off Poplar Level Road from the minute they open until closing time.

“We’re outside in the heat, wearing masks, and trying to make very anxious people feel more at ease,” he said. “The best way to take care of these customers is to take care of ourselves. Staying hydrated is critical part of getting the job done safely and efficiently.”

Barbara Crow, Louisville Water Community Relations Specialist, said the healthcare workers applauded when she delivered 200 bottles to the site. A former Walmart serves as a staging area while the health team members staff the drive-thru testing center.The facility tests about 700 people every day.

Since the start of the pandemic, Norton has tested more that 54,000 Kentuckians, which represents about 10 percent of the testing statewide. Norton also has conducted about 28 percent of the state’s serology testing, the antibody screening used to determine if a person was previously exposed to the virus.