Indiana is once again expanding its COVID-19 testing guidelines. The first 20 testing sites set up through an agreement with OptumServe Health Services opened Wednesday.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box now recommends that anyone at a high risk of COVID-19 complications should get tested, not just those showing symptoms. “If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or if you are at high risk because you’re over the age of 65, you have diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or another underlying condition, or if you’re a member of a minority population that’s at greater risk, please come get tested,” Box said during Wednesday’s COVID-19 press conference. “You do not have to be symptomatic.”
But Box noted that the test is much less accurate for those who don’t have symptoms. She also pointed out that a couple sites had trouble getting what they needed to do the testing, when they tried to open for the first time Wednesday.
Those who need to get tested can register online at LHI.care/CovidTesting or by calling 888-634-1116. Sites are open Monday through Friday. Hours are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. this week.
OptumServe sites are currently operating in LaPorte, Logansport, Valparaiso, and South Bend. Additional sites will open in Cass and Marshall counties next week.
Box said she expects the number of positive cases to continue to go up as testing increases.
