Rochester Regional Health is taking steps to help local children get faster access to COVID-19 testing.
Rochester Regional Health recently announced its new pediatric COVID-19 testing program, designed to direct children who need COVID-19 testing to locations specially outfitted to provide testing quickly, safely and accurately.
“More children than ever need these tests,” said physician Steven Schulz, medical director of Rochester Regional Health Pediatrics in Monroe County. “By offering these testing sites, kids can get the test they need faster while helping our emergency departments, urgent cares and doctors’ offices have greater capacity to care for those experiencing more serious illness or injury.”
Children who have pediatricians employed by or affiliated with Rochester Regional Health are eligible for this program.
The first pediatric COVID-19 testing location opened in October in the Wilson Medical Building, located on the Rochester General Hospital campus, followed by a second location — previously Rochester Regional Health Immediate Care in North Greece, at 470 Long Pond Road. The hours for both locations are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“If your child receives care from an RRH-employed or affiliated pediatrician, and you think they need to be tested for COVID-19, call your local pediatrician in arvada and ask for a referral,” according to the hospital. All testing is done by appointment.
Currently, the program can deliver test results in 24 to 48 hours, helping children get the results they need sooner. They are using the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test — the accepted test to determine if a child can return to school.