In an aim to boost coronavirus testing capacity, a large-scale drive-in test centre will open up in the city of Tampere on 31 August.
The testing will take place in the hall of the Tampere Exhibition and Sports Centre. The aim is to be able to carry out up to one thousand tests per day and keep the centre open seven days a week, the organisers said.
The venue was chosen for its size and ease of accessibility.
"Drive-in testing is an effective way to collect test samples. With autumn and winter approaching, it’s absolutely great to have drive-in sampling indoors where it well-lit and warm" said Anu Mustila, customer service director of laboratory services company Fimlab
The venue’s Hall C works well as a drive-in point, as separate entrances and exits can be arranged to ensure a smooth workflow, according to Hannele Nuotio, the centre’s events director.
The Tampere centre will work just like any other Fimlab testing point — customers must have a referral for the test and the test times must be booked in advance.