As demand for coronavirus COVID-19 testing continues to increase throughout Delaware, ChristianaCare is working round the clock to meet the need, in collaboration with the Division of Public Health and the state’s hospitals and provider community.
ChristianaCare opened a Provider Referral Center in New Castle County to provide coronavirus COVID-19 testing for individuals who are symptomatic and have received a prescription for testing from their doctor.
It is not a walk-in facility. Only patients who have been referred by their doctor, made an appointment and are in possession of a testing order will be tested.
“The safety of our community and our caregivers is our top priority,” said Chief Operating Officer Sharon Kurfuerst, Ed.D., OTR/L, FACHE, FAOTA, FABC. “Based on the availability of supplies, we are working to meet the needs of our community in the safest way possible, in close collaboration with the state of Delaware and our regional health care partners.”
The testing is being done at commercial labs outside the state of Delaware. Turnaround time is two to five days, and ChristianaCare communicates the results to the patient’s referring physician. The laboratory conducting the tests will notify the Delaware Division of Public Health of any positive test results. ChristianaCare will not report positive cases publicly; that information will continue to be disseminated by the Delaware Division of Public Health.
At this time, ChristianaCare does not have plans for a future public drive-through testing event. All positive test results from the drive-through event on March 13 are being reported to the Division of Public Health.
What to do if you are concerned you may have coronavirus
ChristianaCare would like to remind the public that most people who are experiencing coronavirus symptoms do not need to go to the emergency department.
Please do not go to the emergency department unless you are experiencing symptoms that are severe or life-threatening. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.
If you are concerned you have coronavirus, please do NOT show up at your doctor’s office. You should contact your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms and ask to be evaluated for care and testing, if your doctor deems that necessary. If you don’t have a Primary Care Provider and would like one, please call ChristianaCare at 302-777-0643.
Individuals who do not have a primary care provider should call the Delaware Division of Public Health Call Center at 866-408-1899 for guidance.
These steps help us to protect your safety and the safety of others.
Please check here for more information about coronavirus.
