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The CDC is providing every home in the U.S. with 4 free at home COVID-19 tests. They have tests for every residential address in the U.S. Please check back tomorrow if you run into any unexpected issues. Please visit this link to the CDC website for more information and to place your order: www.COVIDTests.gov.
The White House has opened a hotline for those who are unable to order their 4 free COVID-19 tests online. Contact: 1-800-232-0233
COVID-19 Home Self-Test Guidance
With the recent increase in home usage COVID-19 test kit distribution and testing, it’s important to understand what to do with your results, as well as what to do if you’re not feeling well.
A positive test result or seeking care for COVID-19 symptoms, should begin with a phone call to your primary care physician, unless you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency. It is also important to know when to seek urgent care and when to seek emergency care.
The guidance below provides important information that may help you understand what to do after you receive your test results, and the level of care that’s right for you.
When Should I Self-Test Test for COVID-19
Self-Testing / CDC
Consider self-testing if:
- You have COVID-19 symptoms
- You have been exposed or potentially exposed to someone with COVID-19
- Before attending an indoor gathering (especially important before gathering with unvaccinated children or older individuals, those who are immunocompromised or at risk of severe disease.
Full guidance found here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html
What Should I Do If My Result Is Positive
A positive test result indicates that you likely have a current infection, and should isolate and inform:
Full guidance found here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html
What Should I Do If My Result Is Negative
A negative self-test result means the test did not detect the virus and you may not have an infection, BUT it does not rule out infection. Repeating tests within a few days with at least 24 hrs. Between will increase the confidence you are not infected.
Full guidance found here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html
When To Seek Emergency Care Due To COVID-19
Seek emergency care if you are experiencing severe symptoms. Severe symptoms may include, but are not limited to::
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain/pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds
Call your doctor for any symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
Source:
https://www.harvardpilgrim.org/hapiguide/navigating-care-during-covid19-how-to-get-help/
When To Seek Urgent Care Due To COVID-19
- You are directed by your primary care physician
- You are experiencing urgent symptoms that are not life-threatening
Source:
https://www.harvardpilgrim.org/hapiguide/navigating-care-during-covid19-how-to-get-help/
Heywood Healthcare continues to closely monitor COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) and is coordinating with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state public health officials to take every precaution to prepare us to provide safe care to all of our patients,including those who may present with COVID-19 symptoms.
COVID-19 Precautions at Heywood Healthcare
Visitation
Visitation is encouraged to promote a calm and healing environment. Visiting hours are based on the current organizational policy.
Click here to see tips on ways to keep in touch with your loved ones who are in the hospital.
- All support groups, classes, club meetings, etc. held on Heywood Healthcare campuses are suspended indefinitely. Some groups and classes continue to meet virtually.
- The Life Center is closed to the public until further notice.
- All non-essential personnel, including students and interns, are temporarily restricted from Heywood Hospital, Athol Hospital, and all Heywood Medical Group locations.
Youth/Family Support:
- Our Tele-Behavioral Health services are continuing. If your school is interested in participating, please contact Morgan Ban-Draoi at 978-724-0010.
- Visit the "Community Support & Self Care" tab for resources for keeping you and your family safe during this pandemic.
Please continue to refer to Heywood Healthcare’s websites and social media platforms for the most up to date information.
- The South Entrance is currently Closed.
- The entrances available at Athol Hospital is the Main Entrance and Emergency Department Entrance. The Emergency Department is the only entrance is available at night.