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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the need for testing is increasing.
The spread of the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant caused rising case numbers throughout the United States.
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, you should get tested. Do not go to work or school without getting tested if you have symptoms.
At UPMC, we offer testing for COVID-19. Here’s how to get tested at one of our locations and what you can expect when you get there.
Can I go to the Emergency Department for a COVID-19 test?
If you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and have no symptoms or mild symptoms with no breathing problems, you should not go to the Emergency Department (ED) for testing. Instead, you should schedule a test at one of our designated testing locations.
Going to the ED with no symptoms or mild symptoms may cause long wait times. Also, test results do not come back more quickly.
If you have breathing problems or other severe symptoms, then you should go to the ED. Call 911 or visit the nearest ED if you have severe symptoms.
COVID-19 testing process at UPMC
If you believe you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and have no symptoms or mild symptoms, you can schedule a test at UPMC.
Here’s how to schedule a test and get tested:
UPMC Locations in Pennsylvania
If you live in western, central, or north central Pennsylvania, you can schedule a test at one of our COVID-19 testing locations or at your personal care provider’s office. If you live in western or central Pennsylvania, you also can schedule a test at a UPMC Urgent Care location.
You need a doctor’s referral or prescription to get tested.
Step 1: Get a medical order for testing.
You need a doctor’s referral or medical order to get a COVID-19 test. Call your personal care provider (PCP) for an evaluation over the phone. If a test is necessary, they can order a test for you electronically or with a written prescription. You can ask your PCP if they offer COVID-19 testing in their office.
If you don’t have a PCP, or if you’re not a UPMC patient, you still can get a doctor’s order for testing. Learn more.
Step 2: Schedule a test.
Once you have an order from a provider, you can schedule a test. We offer testing locations throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, and West Virginia.
To schedule an appointment at the location closest to you, call the office or schedule online.
Step 3: Get tested.
On the day of your test, bring your identification, your insurance card, and your written testing prescription if you have one.
Remember to wear a mask and follow all other facility protocols. Ask if there are any testing instructions specific to that site.
Step 4: Get your results.
Test results may be available in 24 to 48 hours. It could be longer or shorter than that depending on the volume of tests.
You can access your test results in your UPMC patient portal.
If you don’t have access to a patient portal, a UPMC provider will call with your results.
UPMC Western Maryland
For UPMC Western Maryland patients, COVID-19 testing is available at select UPMC Primary Care offices and UPMC Walk-in Care locations.
Editor's Note: This video was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .