Coliseum Medical Centers is now performing in-house testing for COVID-19. This rapid testing is being used on patients known as “persons under investigation” (PUIs) and the results are available within hours. The laboratory at Coliseum Medical Centers will also process tests from Coliseum Northside Hospital and Fairview Park Hospital in Dublin.
 
“Because all patients who are suspected of possible COVID-19 are treated as if they are positive, we follow strict infection prevention protocols to keep everyone safe,” said Stephen J. Daugherty, Chief Executive Officer of Coliseum Health System. “We’ve had great partners that get test results back to us in about two days. However, having in-house testing allows us to rule out or confirm COVID-19 in just hours. This will significantly reduce the number of patients whose results are pending, which in turn, helps us conserve personal protective equipment and other resources.”
 
Right now, because of a limited supply of tests, the laboratory at Coliseum Medical Centers is testing only admitted patients for COVID-19.  The Georgia Department of Public Health now offers testing to anyone who shows symptoms of COVID-19. Referrals are required from your primary care physician or by calling the North Central Health District’s COVID-19 Testing Line at 1-844-987-0099 for screening. That line is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The North Central Health District also offers testing for health care workers, first responders, law enforcement and long-term care facility residents and staff who have a known exposure to someone with COVID-19, regardless of whether or not they are showing symptoms.