Testing has been a tricky issue in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic in Georgia, but we are happy to report that things are now turning for the better. Symptomatic persons are eligible for Covid-19 testing in Georgia.
Testing is a major tool in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic. Globally, countries that have ramped up testing dramatically have been more successfully in controlling the spread of the disease.
The state of Georgia is taking the necessary steps to ensure that more people can get tested for the disease. All health care workers, first responders, law enforcement personnel, and residents and staff of long term care facilities will be tested on a priority basis, even if they are not symptomatic.
That, however, does not mean that you can simply show up at your local hospital or any drive-thru center, and ask for testing. You will still require a healthcare provider’s referral before you can be tested for Covid-19.
What Should I do to get a Covid-19 test in Georgia?
The most common symptoms of Covid-19 are dry cough, fever and shortness of breath. If you suffer from these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider. Before you meet your health care provider, make sure that you have monitored the symptoms, including frequency and type of cough, onset of fever and other symptoms, so you can give the health care provider all the information he needs. Your health care provider will also likely ask about your medical history. Older people, those who suffer from pre –existing medical conditions or those who are immuno-compromised in any way are at risk of a quicker progression of the disease.
If your health care provider believes that you qualify for testing, he/she will make a referral, and you will be assigned a PUI# number that allows you to get tested at a drive-thru center. If testing at a center is not possible, your healthcare provider may choose to get your sample tested at a commercial lab.
You can also access testing results via texting applications. For more information on that technology go to this link.