COVID-19 TESTING
GENERATIONS COVID-19 TESTING
Beginning, March 31, 2022, Generations is no longer offering the outdoor COVID-19 PCR Testing Clinics at any of our sites, for the general community. Instead, we are providing all of our patients with COVID-19 Rapid Self Testing Kits that can be done easily in your home or elsewhere. This includes patients seen for medical, dental or behavioral health care, or for an appointment with our staff who assist with access to insurance or other community resources.
WHAT IS A SELF-TEST OR AT-HOME TEST?
Rapid Self-Tests for COVID-19 can be done anywhere regardless of your vaccination status or whether or not you have symptoms. These tests detect CURRENT INFECTION and produce your results in a few minutes.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RAPID TESTS AND PCR TESTS?
Rapid Self-Tests do not detect antibodies which would suggest a previous infection and they do not measure your level of immunity.
HOW CAN I GET A SELF TESTING KIT?
If you are a Generations patient, you can pick one up at your next medical, dental or behavioral health appointment to have on hand for when you need it.
HOW DO I GET RAPID SELF TEST KITS IF I AM NOT A GENERATIONS PATIENT OR NEED ADDITIONAL TESTING KITS?
If you are not a Generations patient or need additional testing kits, you can order free tests at COVIDtests.gov. Free tests are also available through local health departments. In addition, you can buy tests online or in pharmacies and retail stores. Private health insurance may reimburse the cost of purchasing self-tests. Visit FDA’s website for a list of authorized tests.
WHEN TO TAKE A RAPID COVID-19 SELF TEST
When should I test myself using a rapid self-testing kit:
- If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, you should test yourself immediately.
- If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should test yourself at least 5 days after your exposure.
If you test negative for COVID-19, consider testing again in 1 to 2 days after your first test
- If you plan to attend an indoor event or gathering, you should test yourself immediately before the gathering, or as close to the time of the event as possible.
This is especially important before gathering with individuals at risk of severe disease, older adults, those who are immunocompromised, or people who are not up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines, including children who cannot get vaccinated yet.
HOW TO USE A RAPID COVID-19 SELF TEST
Read the complete manufacturer’s instructions for use before using the test.
- To use an at-home test, you will collect a nasal specimen and then test that specimen.
- If you do not follow the manufacturer’s instructions, your test result may be incorrect.
- Wash your hands before and after collecting a nasal specimen for your test.
WHAT YOUR RAPID COVID-19 SELF TEST RESULTS MEAN
IF YOUR TEST IS: Positive
- The test detected the virus and you have an infection.
- Stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home.
- Tell your close contacts.
- Wear a well-fitted mask when around others. If available, a N95 or KN95 respirator is recommended.
- Watch for symptoms. If you have any emergency warning signs, seek emergency care immediately.
- Tell your healthcare provider. Contact them as soon as possible if:
- Your symptoms get worse.
- You are more likely to get very sick because you are an older adult or have an underlying medical condition. Possible treatment may be available for you.
- You have questions about your isolation.
IF YOUR TEST IS: Negative
- The test did not detect the virus, but doesn’t rule out an infection.
- Some self-tests are designed to be used in a series (also known as serial testing). Consider repeating the test 24 to 48 hours later. Multiple negative tests increase the confidence that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.
If you believe your test result may be incorrect, contact the test manufacturer for assistance, consider taking another at-home test, or contact a healthcare provider for help.
WHAT IF I AM REQUIRED TO GET A PCR TEST?
Any time a Physician, APRN, or RN determines an existing Generations patient needs a PCR COVID-19 test, one can be scheduled at the Willimantic, Putnam or Danielson sites.
If you are not a Generations patient, you can call 211 or visit the CT Testing Locator at https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/Covid-19-Knowledge-Base/COVID-19-Testing to locate the nearest PCR testing site, which may include local hospitals, pharmacies or state-contracted test facilities.