ST.
PAUL – In light of concerns about availability of COVID-19 test kits and
capacity in Minnesota, hospitals and health systems have been taking action
to conserve testing resources to those most in need. This is in line with the
Minnesota Department of Health’s (MDH)
Health
care providers will prioritize testing for patients who are in the hospital
needing acute care, health care workers and first responders and certain
residents of skilled nursing facilities.
After
a health care provider obtains a sample for COVID-19 testing, the sample is
submitted to MDH or a private lab for testing. Minnesota is experiencing a
shortage of testing supplies, which means that samples collected from
individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 are not able to complete the testing
process.
“I
am concerned that national messaging from the White House task force
regarding test availability in all states and accessible drive-up testing
does not accurately reflect these critical shortages in Minnesota,” said Dr.
Rahul Koranne, president and CEO, MHA. “We currently do not have adequate
testing supplies in Minnesota. Minnesota’s hospitals and health systems are
working together to problem-solve and do all we can to mitigate this
situation, but we need more support and supply resources from the federal
government and private industry. We also need the cooperation of the public
to help us conserve vital resources for those most in need.”
Hospitals
and health systems want to emphasize for community members that if you are
concerned about your symptoms, call your health care provider. Your
provider will work with you to determine whether you should be tested for
COVID-19 and may only recommend testing if you meet certain criteria. You may
be asked to isolate at home and monitor your symptoms at the direction of
your provider.
“If
you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, assume you are positive and stay
home, and call your clinic,” Koranne said. “We all have a critical role to
flatten the curve of the virus and to conserve hospital and health care
system capacity for the acutely ill.”
Hospitals
and health systems also want to be sure patients are receiving the right care
in the right location. Based on your symptoms, you may not need to come to
a hospital or clinic. It cannot be emphasized enough: hospital care needs
to be preserved for those who are acutely ill. Patients should not visit the
hospital emergency department unless they are experiencing an emergency
situation. Your provider can help you determine if you should come in.
The
Minnesota Hospital Association represents Minnesota’s hospitals and health
systems, which provide quality care for their patients and meet the needs of
their communities.
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