[Northampton County, PA] March 31, 2025— Northampton County is excited to announce the launch of “Walk-In Wednesdays,” a new initiative aimed at providing no-cost lead testing for children. This program, developed by Northampton County, in partnership with HNL Lab Medicine is designed to enhance access to essential health screenings for families throughout the county.
Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure stated, “Ensuring that every child has access to lead testing is a crucial step in protecting their health and well-being. By removing barriers like cost and the need for appointments, we are making it easier for families to take proactive measures against lead exposure.”
“Walk-In Wednesday” allows families to simply walk in and have their child screened for lead poisoning. A straightforward blood test is the best way to determine if a child has been exposed to lead, which can often occur without visible symptoms. Parents are encouraged to consult with their child’s healthcare provider about blood lead testing if there are concerns regarding potential exposure.
Why Get Tested?
Certain children are at a higher risk for lead exposure. Northampton County encourages families to take advantage of this free testing for children who:
– Live in homes or apartments built before 1978
– Reside in older neighborhoods
– Have spent time in older residences abroad
– Live or spend time with someone who works with lead as a hobby
– Spend time in caregiver homes that are older
Type of Test Offered
The program will provide a venous blood sample, which is the most accurate method for detecting lead levels in children. This approach ensures reliable results, as lead exposure can lead to serious and lifelong health issues, including developmental delays, hearing and speech problems, and difficulties with learning and attention.
Beginning April 9, lead testing will be available for children up to age 15 who live in Northampton County. Testing will take place at the Bethlehem Township LVHN Health Center on Emrick Boulevard, on the second Wednesday of each month from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
With 63% of homes in Northampton County built before 1980, many children remain at risk for lead exposure. Currently, only 14% of children in the county are screened, leaving many potential cases undetected.
Families who do not meet the eligibility criteria, such as those living outside Northampton County, can still access lead testing through insurance or by purchasing low-cost testing through HNL Lab Tests Direct.
For more information on lead testing and available resources, please visit https://www.norcopa.gov & https://www.hnl.com.
HNL Lab Medicine Patient Service Center: Bethlehem Twp – LVHN Health Center
Address: 2101 Emrick Boulevard Bethlehem, PA 18020
Phone: 484‐425-5284 | Fax: 484‐425‐5345
Website: https://www.hnl.com/about/locations/bethlehem-twp-lvhn-health-center
Hours of Operation: Monday‐Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. to noon.
About HNL Lab Medicine
HNL Lab Medicine is a leading multi‐regional, full‐service medical laboratory providing testing and related services to physician offices, hospitals, long‐term care facilities, employers and industrial accounts. With 50+ patient service centers in Pennsylvania and 14 acute care laboratories within partners’ hospital sites, and over 40 board-certified pathologists and scientific directors, HNL Lab Medicine provides high-quality, advanced diagnostic testing. Learn more at HNL.com.
Information provided to TVL by:
County of Northampton
669 Washington Street
Easton, PA 18042
https://www.northamptoncounty.org/
