MT. VERNON — SSM Health in Southern Illinois opens its first COVID-19 testing sites, which will test people who are showing symptoms of the virus.

To be tested, patients must first complete a free online evaluation at www.ssmhealth.com/covid19. If they meet the criteria set by the Centers for Disease Control, they will then be sent to an area testing facility where clinicians can collect specimens to be sent to a lab.

Collection sites have been established in both Mt. Vernon and Centralia. Testing will only be done on those patients who have been referred by either an SSM Health Virtual Visit or an SSM Health physician.

Anyone who feels sick and has the symptoms of COVID-19 is encouraged to complete a free online evaluation at ssmhealth.com/covid19. You do not need to be an existing SSM Health patient.

This move demonstrates SSM Health’s commitment to ensuring everyone has access to high-quality affordable health care. These proactive steps ensure the continued safety of our patients, visitors, physicians, staff and communities.

We are working with regional health authorities as well as the Centers for Disease Control to actively monitor the situation and ensure we have the most up-to-date information.