Going to the Raider Rapid Results Testing Center to get tested for COVID-19 coronavirus is slowly becoming part of their weekly routine for Shippensburg University students, faculty and staff. 

The R3 center has performed 3,500 tests within the last two weeks according to a COVID-19 update email sent out to students from Christopher Clarke, the executive director of operations. Hours of operation were changed to Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Clarke said in the email. The center expanded how many tests it could perform in an hour from 48 to 60, according to Javita Thompson, director of the first-year experience and community engagement and the only faculty worker at the R3 center. 

The change from having just nasal swab tests at the Etter Health Center to introducing R3 testing was made to get more tests done and have more efficient tests available, Clarke said. “You move toward the Cadillac of testing, where what we’re using is lightyears ahead of what we were using in August.” Clarke said. 

Within 24 hours, tests results will be available on the shippensburgportal.pointnclick.com. This “passport” will be needed to access the ShipRec, residence halls and to participate in student programs, according to Clarke. By having mandated testing, there will be changes in some restrictions regarding residence halls and programming, Clarke said. 

The R3 testing center is busiest on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, Thompson said. Sports teams come on those days and the ROTC on Thursdays. Students make up the majority of individuals getting tested at the center and students also make up the majority of workers at the center. 

All workers are equipped with masks and gloves. In addition to protective equipment, the center is cleaned between shifts, Thompson said. To keep participants feeling clean and secure, wet wipes and hand sanitizer are available to those giving samples, Thompson said. Students can schedule a test at shippensburgportal.pointnclick.com. 

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