Should I get a COVID test? Here’s what the experts say

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Thursday, January 6, 2022

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Should I get a COVID test? Here’s what the experts say

STHS Communication Department, commdept@stph.org

(Stock image)

With a national shortage of COVID-19 home testing kits putting a strain on medical facilities, St. Tammany Health System is asking local residents to adhere to the following guidance when considering whether or not they should get tested.

Do you have few or no symptoms?

  • Those with mild or no symptoms, or those concerned they have been exposed (see below), should not seek testing in emergency rooms, urgent cares or off-hours clinics. Instead, they should self-isolate and monitor their symptoms.
  • If symptoms worsen, follow the below guidance.

Concerned you’ve been exposed?

  • St. Tammany Parish government and the National Guard have been hosting public testing at the Covington Fairgrounds and Slidell’s Fritchie Park. Visit the parish’s Facebook feed and Nextdoor posts for dates and times.
  • Parish officials will continue to announce new dates as long as the federal resource remains available.

Are your symptoms significant but not serious?

  • Get tested at a diagnostic facility like St. Tammany Health System’s Paul D. Cordes Outpatient Pavilion in Covington or the health system’s Mandeville Diagnostic Center.
  • Please note: To ensure optimal use of tests, a physician order is required at this time to be tested at either of the above locations. Seeking an order from your established primary care provider or calling (985) 898-4001 to schedule with one of ours is an excellent way to have a medical professional help you establish how serious or mild your COVID symptoms are.

Do you have severe symptoms?

  • Call your doctor’s office or visit the nearest emergency department.

Because a person can have COVID-19 before symptoms arise or not exhibit symptoms at all, health experts consider widespread testing key to containing this disease.

Following the above guidelines will ensure care providers and adequate supplies are available for those truly in need of emergency care.

Please note: Emergency services are available for emergency care at all times.


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