Thursday, April 23, 2020

More local healthcare providers offering expanded COVID-19 testing

MORE LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS OFFERING EXPANDED COVID-19 TESTING


News Release from Central Oregon Emergency Information Network
Downloadable file: Central Oregon COVID19 Testing Locations
Downloadable file: COEIN Update Graphic
For Immediate Release
Central Oregon Public Health departments want to help Central Oregonians access diagnostic testing for COVID-19 if they are experiencing symptoms. Twenty-two urgent care clinics and health care providers in Central Oregon are scheduling appointments for testing.

To find out which local locations offer COVID-19 testing, visit https://www.deschutes.org/health/page/covid-19-testing.

Local health care providers urge individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to call ahead to their provider, urgent care, or local clinic to schedule an appointment. Most urgent care clinics have expanded their criteria for testing to include people with mild symptoms. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

“We are thrilled that local health care providers now have the supplies and ability to expand testing capacity in Central Oregon,” said George Conway, Deschutes County Health Service Director. “This is an important service for individuals in our community and for public health to control and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

In most situations, patients can expect to have a telehealth (virtual) appointment with a health care provider to determine if a test is warranted. Many locations are now offering drive-through appointments for testing so it is important to call ahead.

If you develop any of the following emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get medical attention immediately: trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face.

ABOUT COEIN
COEIN’s website, www.coemergencyinfo.blogspot.com provides a collective resource for up-to-date information. Access to accurate, timely information both locally and nationally is encouraged. Our County Public Health experts point to the Oregon Health Authority and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as good sources of information. Daily situation updates are available via email at http://bit.ly/COVID19UPDATES

COVID-19 phone line: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 541-699-5109

Central Oregon Emergency Information Network (COEIN), includes Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Health System, Crook County Health Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Health Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, tri-county public schools, City of Bend, Bend Police, Bend Fire & Rescue, and others. COEIN’s purpose is to collect, coordinate and distribute timely and accurate information.

Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities  
To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact the COEIN JIC at 541.316.0087 or centraloregoninfo@gmail.com.
Contact Info:
Crook County: Vicky Ryan, Preparedness Coordinator, 541-323-2467, vryan@h.co.crook.or.us

Deschutes County: Morgan Emerson, Preparedness Coordinator, 458-292-6256, morgan.emerson@deschutes.org

Jefferson County: Tami Kepa'a, Public Information Officer, 541-475-4456, tami.kepaa@co.jefferson.or.us