CentraCare Reduces COVID-19 Testing for People Without Symptoms

Increased demand for COVID-19 testing in recent weeks has led to a national shortage of supplies (reagents) needed to process tests. CentraCare is making changes to allocate testing resources to individuals with the greatest needs. As a result of these circumstances, the following groups of people will be prioritized for COVID-19 testing:

• Those with symptoms consistent with COVID-19
• Mission critical workers including health care workers, first responders, childcare workers, food production workers and other groups defined by the Minnesota Department of Health
• People with known exposure to someone who tested positive
• Individuals who need testing before a procedure or in coordination with health care

In general, people who do not have symptoms should not be tested for COVID-19 unless directed by a medical provider or public health representative.

Additionally, because of the national shortage of reagents, the time to receive test results has increased. Test results may take up to seven days. Patients who sign up and use MyChart, which provides online access to your medical records, will receive their results sooner.

People with symptoms and those who need testing for other reasons should contact CentraCare Connect. Call 320-200-3200 to speak with a nurse 24/7 or make an appointment with a health care provider.