Posts in COVID-19 Q & A
COVID-19 Q & A

Q: Can the Family Medicine Center (FMC) test for novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?

A: For patients who meet testing guidelines, the FMC can collect samples that are sent to the appropriate state or commercial lab facilities. The test for COVID-19 can only be performed through state or select commercial labs.

Q: Can anyone be tested for COVID-19?

A: Due to the limited availability of testing by state and commercial labs, the FMC is currently following guidelines set by the Indiana State Health Department (ISDH) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines to determine the most appropriate patients to collect samples for testing. Once identified, those patients are referred to a local emergency room for testing.

Q: If I go to the emergency room, or have a doctor’s note, can I be tested?

A: We are strongly encouraging our patients to call our office at 260-423-2675 to be screened BEFORE going to the emergency room. If you go to the emergency room and DO NOT meet criteria for testing, you will not be tested.

If you do not qualify for testing, our physicians are able to help you manage your symptoms and follow guidelines to minimize exposure to others.

Q: Should everyone who has COVID-19 symptoms be seen by a doctor?

A: The majority of people with COVID-19 have minor symptoms and do not require an office visit or testing. People with minor symptoms are encouraged to stay home rather than seek testing or medical care. If you have symptoms or concerns specific to COVID-19 you may:

1. Call our office for a free phone screening at 260-423-2675

Please be aware that the phone screening may determine that you need to see a provider for care and management of your symptoms. However, seeing a provider does not guarantee you will meet the criteria for testing of COVID-19.

Adapted from Indiana State Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control, ISDH prevailing

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COVID-19 Q & ADarlene Schultz