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Rapid Testing Resources, Local and National Updates

August 4, 2020

With the start of each new week, we can hardly believe what we all have persevered through, and what has been accomplished on so many fronts to get to the next week, month, and stage of these unexpected times. We are 146 days into this, which no one could have imagined would be the case, and your steadfastness and creativity are what keep this industry going.  Numbers across the region are staying steady, and while that is good news, it is important that you continue to remain vigilant, aware, mask up, sanitize, and keep these focused efforts going in your operations, with your teams, and in your daily lives. We know you are all working hard to do the right thing.  This is how we get to the next step, versus dialing back, and all these small actions make all the difference as we think big and look forward to the future. 

We are here for you, as always, and RAMW continues to push forward on so many things behind the scenes to advocate for your businesses, continue to push for relief for you, and to tell your story across a variety of platforms. This week, you may be seeing our Public Trust video spot on NBC4 and on social media platforms, sharing with diners how you all are going above and beyond to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.  We are also working with Mayor Bowser and DC’s Office of Nightlife to produce a “Mask Up DC” PSA which will air later this week urging diners to mask up when dining out.  We are working with communities across the region to develop messaging, marketing and programming to meet the various needs as we work through reopening as an industry.  

As always, here are some updates and resources for you from across the region. 

COVID Testing Resources: We have shared information over these past five months about testing that is available through DC, Maryland and Virginia governments, however as you likely know or have witnessed first hand, it can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days to get results back, which does not always work for you or your business. We want to share alternative testing locations that offer rapid tests or guarantee test results within 72 hours. As a note, we have no affiliation with any of the below locations and are simply sharing what is available. RAMW does not specifically recommend or endorse any of the options.

Rapid Testing Options

  • Old Dominion Urgent Care in McLean offers rapid testing for walk-ins or by appointment. Click here for more information.
  • McLean Immediate Care offers rapid testing, but they do not take insurance, however you can submit an insurance claim to your carrier. Appointments required. Click here for more information. 
  • A Squared Primary Care in Tenley offers rapid testing. Click here for more information. Email them directly at asquaredprimarycare@gmail.com to schedule a test.

Results within 72 hours

  • Care First in Fairfax offers tests that guarantee results in 48-72 hours. Click here for more information. 
  • Patient First has a turnaround time of 72 hours or less. Click here for more information and locations. 

At home testing options promising results within 72-hours and also offer companywide testing options

If you have a resource for rapid testing, please share this information with us so we can provide it to others in the community seeking options. Send this information to coronavirus@ramw.org.

In Virginia, The Arlington County Board adopted an emergency ordinance prohibiting groups of more than three people from congregating on streets and sidewalks and requiring pedestrians to maintain at least six feet of physical separation from others. This will only apply to streets and sidewalks posted with the restrictions. If you have customers waiting outside your restaurant, please make sure they are in compliance with this ordinance. Violators could face a traffic fine of up to $100. The Board voted unanimously to adopt the emergency amendment to the County Code, and enforcement will begin after a period of outreach and education, and after signs are posted in the areas of enforcement. We will keep you posted as more information becomes available. 

In DC, as a reminder Mayor Bowser announced a mandatory 14-day quarantine for people who travelled to “high risk states” for nonessential reasons. We received some questions from you asking if a negative test result can replace the quarantine. We received further clarification from the Mayor’s Office that you are not required to be tested after traveling to a high risk state, but if you choose to be tested and receive a negative test before the 14-days expire you are still required to complete the full quarantine. Click here for the current list of high risk states

On the national relief front, Congress is still working out what the next round of relief will look like, and the House and the Senate have yet to come to agreement. Click here for a helpful video recap from the National Restaurant Association of what is being considered and how to get involved and take action. The Independent Restaurant Association has also put together a strong video about the impact of COVID on our industry. Click here to view it or share it if you like. 

In closing, I want to share a reminder that Summer Restaurant Week is August 17-30 across the region. This long-running promotion has been completely retooled to include a new focus on takeout packages, curbside pickup, cocktails to go, and on-premise dining.  Restaurants can dial up or dial back as needed to accommodate their operations and comfort level. More at RWDMV.com, or email rw@ramw.org for questions, and sign up for only $10 through your member portal by clicking here. Non-members please inquire about participation via the email address above. 

As always, if you have any questions contact us at coronavirus@ramw.org

Be safe. Be kind. Wear a mask.

Best,

Kathy