PIPESTONE, MN (July 17, 2020) – A Pipestone County Medical Center community COVID-19 testing event will be held at the new show arena on the Pipestone County Fairgrounds in Pipestone, MN on Monday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will be a drive-up testing event, so nobody will need to leave their vehicles. People should come into the fairgrounds via the south driveway on 10th Ave SE.
The testing will be conducted through a swab in the nose, and individuals should bring a driver’s license and insurance card, if possible. Those who have masks should wear them to the testing event. No appointment is needed.
“Cases of COVID-19 in Pipestone County have increased over the last several weeks. Holding a community testing event will help to identify people who have the virus, and asking them to isolate will help slow the spread,” said Bradley Burris, CEO of Pipestone County Medical Center.
“We have seen significant community spread in Pipestone County, and many of the individuals who have tested positive have no symptoms of the virus. To the extent we can find asymptomatic cases and isolate them, the better chance we have of slowing the virus down,” Burris added.
Insurance companies, as well as government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, have taken steps to ensure coverage to eliminate any out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing at this time. For self-pay, there will not be a bill at this time. PCMC will seek reimbursement from any applicable government programs which may provide coverage for the test. You may receive a bill should government funding not cover the cost of the testing.
Who Should be TestedThis event is planned with an emphasis on testing for individuals who live and work in Pipestone County, but it is open to individuals from surrounding areas as well. People should consider being tested if they:
- Have symptoms of COVID-19 now – even if symptoms are very mild
- Had symptoms within the last 4-10 days
- Have recently been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19
- Think they might have been exposed to the virus
- Recently attended a large event or community gathering
- Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever, or feeling feverish
- Chills
- New cough
- Shortness of breath
- New sore throat
- New muscle aches
- New headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Test ResultsTest results should be available five to seven days after testing. Individuals with positive results will be notified by phone as soon as results are available. Individuals with negative results will be notified by letter.
“It’s important for individuals to remember that a negative test result doesn’t mean they are cleared to go out and resume normal activity immediately. The test result only means you did not have COVID-19 at the time of testing. You could test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and then test positive later during your illness. If you believe you’ve been exposed, you are still asked to stay home and monitor your health for 14 days, even if you test negative,” said Dr. Jackie Anderson, PCMC healthcare provider.
All area residents are reminded to exercise caution and follow safety practices to protect themselves, their families, and vulnerable populations in the community.
“I know we keep saying this, but it is so important. Regardless of test results, all of us need to wash our hands diligently, maintain at least 6 feet social distancing, wear masks when out in public, avoid crowds, and stay home when possible. Especially if you are sick, please stay home,” Dr. Anderson added.
Anyone with questions about symptoms and testing can call 507-825-5811.
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About Pipestone County Medical Center (PCMC)
Pipestone County Medical Center is a Critical Access Hospital offering a complete range of inpatient and outpatient services. Pipestone County Medical Center is part of Avera Health and works with Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Pipestone County Medical Center and Family Clinic will meet the health needs of the region by providing quality, personalized health services for the best value. We will achieve our mission by collaborating with others; by serving our customers’ and patients’ needs and expectations; by acting with integrity, respect, and compassion; and by practicing sound financial stewardship.
For more information, contact Dan Smilloff, Marketing Coordinator, at 507-825-6040 or via email at dan.smilloff@pcmchealth.org.
