Thread by @TexasTribune

1/ If you want to get tested for the new coronavirus, here’s what you need to know.

Right now, meeting with a doctor and exhibiting #COVID19 symptoms doesn’t guarantee you’ll be tested at one of 10 public health labs in Texas.

bit.ly/2Ugrunk

#coronavirus

2/ First, let’s clarify the types of places Texans have gotten tested.

Tests are given in public health labs, private clinics or hospitals. bit.ly/2Ugrunk

3/ Do you qualify for a test?

According to @TexasHHSC, it’s up to your doctor to decide if you should be tested.

People who need help finding doctors can call 2-1-1 to find low- or no-cost providers in their area. bit.ly/2Ugrunk

4/ Public and federal labs are prioritizing testing Texans who meet the following criteria:

+ High-risk patients

+ Hospital patients with #COVID19 symptoms, (cont. ⬇️) bit.ly/2Ugrunk

5/ (cont.)
+ Health care workers who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for the coronavirus

+ Patients with recent travel history in areas that have been affected by the virus bit.ly/2Ugrunk

6/ Anyone who doesn’t qualify for state lab testing can seek a private test — but not everyone can get tested that way either.

Private tests must be ordered by a doctor/health care provider, and hospitals and commercial labs can have their own criteria. bit.ly/2Ugrunk

7/ How much will a test cost?

Tests conducted by state labs are free. That's not necessarily the case with tests by private labs.

On Wednesday, a private clinic in Houston said it’s charging $150 to test people at its drive-through testing site. bit.ly/2Ugrunk

8/8 How many tests are available in Texas?

Testing has been limited so far, but state officials said that by the end of the week, he expects the state to be able to test 10,000 people weekly. bit.ly/2Ugrunk