KALAMAZOO. – Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport has partnered with locally based OptiMed Health Partners to provide COVID-19 testing for arriving and departing passengers as well as members of the local community.

The OptiMed COVID testing office on the main floor allows for safe and private testing near the baggage claim and car rental stations with plenty of space for social distancing.

OptiMed’s trained healthcare professionals, in partnership with locally based lab Genemarkers, will administer PCR testing with 24- to 48-hour turnaround at no out-of-pocket cost. Travelers also will have the option of paying $100 for rapid antigen testing that will provide results within 15 minutes. No referral is needed.

Testing will be held weekdays and weekends during all scheduled flight times. Walk-ins are welcome, although appointments can be scheduled in advance at www.covid19azo.com.

“Testing is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat this pandemic, in addition to following safety guidelines such as wearing a mask, washing hands and social distancing,” said Rob Doornweerd, chief operating officer for OptiMed Health Partners. “We’re proud to partner with the airport to provide our community a safe, convenient testing option that supports traveler safety.”

Passengers are not required to show test results when entering the airport, checking in for a flight or before boarding a plane, however, Doornweerd said testing is key to mitigating the spread of COVID between communities.

Passengers should not come to the airport if they are sick or experiencing COVID-like symptoms. For more information about testing, airport hours, or to schedule an appointment, go to www.covid19azo.com. OptiMed also offers COVID testing services at their site on 9th Street Kalamazoo office (6480 Technology Ave.) and in South Haven in partnership with Moore Family Pharmacy.

“Assuring passenger safety and security is important and we want all passengers to know that the airport is ready when they are,” said Craig Williams, airport director.

For more information about the Airport and our airlines, visit www.flyazo.com.

To learn more about OptiMed’s innovative and personalized care, go to www.optimedhp.com or email [email protected].

To learn more about Genemarkers’ testing services, visit www.genemarkersllc.com or email [email protected].