Officials with SCK Health in Ark City have provided some information on COVID-19 in light of the Biden Administration’s plans for mass distribution of at-home rapid tests.
On Jan. 14, White House officials under the Biden Administration announced plans to begin the mass distribution of one billion rapid tests to Americans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that Americans use these at home tests if they begin to show COVID-19 symptoms at least five days after encountering a person who currently has COVID-19, or after a large indoor gathering.
This measure started Wednesday and there is a 7-12 day processing time for each order before shipping to households.
SCK Health officials recognize that testing is an important tool to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community. To assist with the transition from an at-home test to a healthcare provider, we have established a list of steps a person with a positive at-home test can take to ensure they receive the appropriate care. Upon receiving a positive at-home test result:
- Contact your primary care provider, or local urgent care facility over the phone and ask to have a telehealth appointment set up so that a healthcare provider may assess the severity of your symptoms, and recommend the best course of action for your specific situation.
- Prepare to isolate yourself from other members of the public by following the recommended isolation protocols for your area.
- If you require attention at a healthcare facility, be prepared to take a second COVID-19 test performed by the healthcare provider. This will allow for more certainty in the accuracy and proper administration of the test.
- If your condition worsens before the previous steps can be completed, please utilize your local emergency room services.
SCK Health recognizes that each individual requires specific care to meet their needs. If you have questions or concerns about telehealth and COVID-19 testing, please contact SCK Health – Urgent Care at (620) 442-2100.