Gangbuk-gu, Operation of One-Stop Screening Clinic

COVID-19 Testing Procedures All in One Place: Registration → Pre-examination → Education → Sample Collection... Protective Gear-Free Screening Clinics Improve Medical Staff Work Environment and Enhance Convenience for Testees

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Gangbuk-gu (Mayor Park Kyum-soo) has launched the operation of a "one-stop screening clinic" where the COVID-19 testing procedures are all conducted while walking through the same location.

The purpose is to improve the working conditions of medical staff wearing protective suits in the heatwave and to maximize safety by minimizing contact with test subjects.

The new screening clinic combines the Gangbuk-style walking-through (pedestrian movement type) and glove wall (medical partition). Unlike the existing walking-through method where individuals move between specimen booths, the district’s walking-through is conducted by circulating around the outside of the screening clinic. This enhances the convenience for testees and is regarded as a more advanced method.

The glove wall method involves inserting hands into holes with attached vinyl gloves between transparent acrylic panels to collect specimens. By spatially separating medical staff and test subjects, contact is minimized, preventing cross-infection even when air conditioning or heating is operated. Furthermore, a positive pressure device that blocks external viruses is installed inside the clinic, allowing work without protective suits.

The clinic consists of 3 reception desks, 1 preliminary examination desk, 1 specimen preparation and education desk, and 2 testing desks. In particular, the education booth provides detailed guidance on living instructions for self-quarantined individuals and infectious disease prevention rules.

Additionally, administrative staff, doctors, nurses, and clinical pathologists work in the same space, enhancing work efficiency through smooth and rapid consultation. Outside the clinic, there is a shade tent where users can take the COVID-19 test while avoiding heatwaves or rain.

Park Kyum-soo, Mayor of Gangbuk-gu, said, “There have been frequent reports nationwide of clinic workers collapsing from exhaustion due to heatwaves and wearing protective suits weighing up to 3kg,” adding, “The introduction of the one-stop screening clinic will be a proactive measure to reduce the burden and fatigue of medical staff and increase convenience for users.”