YKHC increased COVID-19 Testing

by YKHC Staff

YKHC is offering COVID-19 testing to every person visiting a YKHC facility in the Delta.

Testing all patients and caretakers will increase early detection of the virus in communities. Increased testing may also help reduce the test positivity rate, one measure considered in recommendations for easing lockdown and re-opening schools.

In clinics, results will usually be available before the appointment ends. At the hospital, people who test positive will be notified. Due to the large volume of testing at the hospital, individuals who test negative will not be contacted.

People who have received one or both shots of the COVID-19 vaccine should be tested. Patients who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 should wait three months before getting tested again.

Testing is an important component in the fight against COVID-19. However, YKHC continues to urge the public to practice all other protective measures avoiding hosting or attending gatherings of any kind, wearing a mask when in public, practicing regular handwashing, remaining physically distant (more than six feet) from anyone who does not reside in your household, frequently disinfecting high-touch surfaces, refraining from non-essential travel, and receiving free COVID-19 testing upon arrival at the Bethel, St. Mary’s, and Aniak airports. YKHC also strongly encourages all eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as they are able. Vaccine information and appointment availability can be found at https://www.ykhc.org/covid-19/vaccine/.

YKHC also offers free COVID-19 testing without an appointment at the Bethel drive-thru testing site every Monday-Friday from 2 to 4p.m. Testing is also available by appointment in Bethel by calling 543-6949, or in villages by calling the local clinic.

Get the latest information on COVID-19 from YKHC at www.ykhc.org/covid-19.