FAQs
Does Atlantic General Hospital provide rapid testing for COVID-19?
No, we do not provide rapid testing on an outpatient basis. Testing, both PCR and rapid testing, is available at most major pharmacies. Check your local pharmacy's website to learn more about availability in your area.
I was recently tested for COVID-19. How do I find out about my results?
Depending upon where you were tested, results may take between 2 and 7 days, sometimes longer. You will be contacted as soon as your results are received from the lab performing the analysis.
What kind of testing is performed?
The Atlantic General Outpatient Center's lab uses the Abbott ID test:
Atlantic General Health System's provider offices use the Veritor test:
I have an appointment or services scheduled at Atlantic General Hospital or with an Atlantic General Health System Provider. Should I cancel it?
No. You should come to your appointment as scheduled, unless you are exhibiting any signs of cold or flu-like symptoms, in which case you should call your provider’s office for further instructions.
Atlantic General Health System will provide telehealth access for patient appointments where this type of treatment is appropriate. Patients who qualify for a telehealth appointment will be offered this option as well as instructions for joining the virtual visit.
What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19 and I have an upcoming appointment at Atlantic General Hospital or with an Atlantic General Health System provider?
If you are exhibiting any signs of cold- or flu-like symptoms, including the ones below, you should reschedule your appointment for the health and safety of those around you. If you feel like you need to keep your appointment, please call in advance to discuss with your doctor's office.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Cough (dry)
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Fever of 100 degree F or greater
- Chills
- Repeated shaking (rigors) with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- New loss of taste or smell
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/vomiting
- Fatigue
- Congestion/runny nose
My children usually come with me to appointments. Can I bring them?
We strongly advise that children not visit the hospital or our outpatient facilities at this time. Please visit the hospital's Temporary Visitor Restrictions webpage or our social media sites for any updates.
How long will these changes in the visiting policy be in effect?
Because this is a rapidly changing situation, we cannot predict how long these restrictions will remain in place. We will maintain them as long as necessary to protect our patients, visitors and caregivers. Please see our Temporary Visitor Restrictions or our social media sites for the most up-to-date information.
If I think I have COVID-19 what should I do?
If you have symptoms or you have been exposed to the virus through direct contact with someone who has tested positive, you should contact your health care provider to determine whether you should be screened and how best to isolate yourself from others and for how long.
If your health care provider or the health department determines that you need to be screened, testing, both PCR and rapid testing, is available at most major pharmacies. Check your local pharmacy's website to learn more about availability in your area.