HCMH offering a new option for rapid testing for COVID-19

Humboldt, IA – Humboldt County Memorial Hospital is announcing a new rapid COVID-19 testing option.

Release from HCMH:

Individuals looking for rapid COVID-19 testing will have a convenient new option beginning Monday, November 2nd when Humboldt County Memorial Hospital (HCMH) opens a new community testing site.

The new testing site, located on the northside of the hospital between the Emergency Room and Surgery Center, will be accepting symptomatic patients by appointment only. Patients will need to call 515-332-7665 Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to make an appointment. Upon arrival, patients will need to call from their car to complete the registration process and be notified when they can come in. All patients will be required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing.

“Accessible, timely testing is critical to reduce transmission of the virus and protect our community.” Michelle Sleiter, CEO states

The expansion of this symptomatic testing service in Humboldt County coincides with an increase in positive cases and appointment capacity within our local UnityPoint Clinic. We want you and your family to be able to have convenient access to testing, right here in Humboldt. When you need us most, we want to be able to be here for you.

This new site will be able to test you, process the test and report your result within the same day. Patients will receive their test results via phone call before they leave our campus. Patients who test positive for COVID-19 will also be contacted by their local Public Health department with important next steps, including information on how to help prevent spreading the virus to others.

You do need symptoms to get tested. Symptoms that may warrant a test include cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, fatigue, muscle ache, sore throat, headache, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, recent loss of taste or smell, or confusion, particularly in older adults.

There is no up-front cost for testing and patients do not need medical insurance or government-issued identification to get tested. However, if you have health insurance, your insurance will be billed.

HCMH does request identification when scheduling the appointment, name, date of birth and phone number. Patient information is confidential.

“We would like to thank our community for having patience with us as we get this new site up and running and we are grateful for your support.” Michelle Sleiter, CEO

Please visit www.humboldthospital.org for details or call 515-332-7665, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

*Appointments continue to be available with your primary care provider at UnityPoint Clinic Humboldt Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and at the UnityPoint Walk-In Clinic on Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.