BUCKHANNON — St. Joseph’s Hospital is asking patients with mild symptoms of COVID to avoid coming to the Emergency Department for treatment or testing.

“The Emergency Department is very busy treating patients with significant illnesses and injuries and people coming with mild illness or seeking testing for COVID are putting a strain on emergency department staff and resources,” said Maria Long, MD, Emergency Department Director. “We ask that patients needing testing utilize our testing trailer instead of coming to the Emergency Department.”

Anyone who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or thinks they may have been exposed to the virus should get a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, which are available at WVU Medicine testing sites, local health departments and testing sites operated by the state.  Those needing testing prior to surgical procedures or required by their employer should use the testing trailer as well. Those who test positive and have mild or no symptoms should call their primary provider.

St. Joseph’s Hospital’s testing trailer is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  It is located in front of the hospital between the hospital’s main entrance and the Emergency Department entrance.

Two types of tests are available. State testing does not require a physician’s order and results will be back in approximately two business days. If you need results more quickly, please contact your physician and have them submit an order to the hospital. Rapid testing is not available. 

Please stay in your vehicle for the test, do not come into the hospital or Emergency Department.