In another critical milestone for Maryland’s long-term testing strategy, Governor Hogan has announced appointment-free COVID-19 testing for Marylanders even if they are asymptomatic. Testing will be provided regardless of the ability to pay, type of health insurance, or participation in any particular provider network.
According to former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb, “asymptomatic screening for at risk individuals is key” to reopening the state. Even before this announcement, Maryland had conducted over 200,000 COVID-19 tests, comprising 3.5% of the population and far exceeding goals established by federal health officials.
Maryland to begin new testing sites for symptomatic and asymptomatic screening, no appointment needed. Broad screening, including asymptomatic screening for at risk individuals, is key to controlling spread as @GovLarryHogan implements state’s reopen plan https://t.co/cecqOEiWok
— Scott Gottlieb, MD (@ScottGottliebMD) May 20, 2020
In addition to this progress in Maryland, Governor Hogan continues to advocate for his colleagues on the federal level as chair of the National Governors Association. Just yesterday, Governor Hogan reiterated the call of the nation’s governors for The White House to approve 100 percent federal cost sharing for FEMA response and recovery efforts. Governor Hogan first made this request in early April.