Valley Health issued the following announcement on Jan. 7
“Where can I get a COVID-19 test?” It’s a thought we’ve all had at some point in the last two years. As COVID-19 continues to spread in our community, testing continues to be an important part of battling this virus.
Valley Health is fortunate to have one of the most robust COVID testing systems in the state, along with extremely dedicated healthcare workers who administer and process these tests—rain, shine or snow.
With the prevalence of COVID-19 in our region, there are more people seeking tests than ever before. Over the past few weeks, Valley Health has experienced a 300% increase in tests performed, and we’re currently processing over 6,000 tests a week.
This surge threatens to put a strain on our sites.
If you need a COVID-19 test, consider some alternative testing measures that will continue to keep our healthcare resources open and functioning at full capacity, while keeping you safe and stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Consider an at-home COVID-19 test if you have symptoms:
- While at-home tests are not as accurate as PCR tests, the positive results are very reliable.
- Negative results for people with symptoms can be repeated, and if they are still negative a few days later, they are also considered highly reliable.
- Patients who are symptomatic and who may have COVID should stay home or see a doctor to get further advice.
- There is no role for at-home testing for people who do not have symptoms as these tests are not accurate in that setting.
- Check your local pharmacy or online for at-home tests.
- Call your primary care physician for non-emergent care
- Visit vhurgentcare.com, also for non-emergent medical care
- Visit the Emergency Department for emergency care. Remember, this is for patients with severe conditions that may be life-threatening.
Original source can be found here.
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