Michigan expands COVID-19 testing to anyone with symptoms

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has expanded its testing criteria for COVID-19 to include anyone with mild symptoms. The state has also launched a test site finder on its website.

“Expanded testing is needed to learn more about how COVID-19 is spreading in our state,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “We want to make sure people know that if they have symptoms, they should work with their medical provider to be tested.”

Michigan’s testing priority criteria now includes:

  • Hospitalized patients.
  • Symptomatic healthcare workers.
  • Patients in congregate facilities with symptoms, including those at:
  • Long-term care or elderly living facilities.
  • Jails or prisons.
  • Homeless shelters.
  • Residential foster care facilities.
  • Other group living setting.
  • Patients age 65 and older with symptoms.
  • Patients with underlying conditions with symptoms.
  • First responders with symptoms.
  • Critical infrastructure workers with symptoms.
  • Individuals with mild symptoms.

The COVID-19 testing site finder allows residents to locate testing sites by inputting their address or selecting state, county and zip.

Individuals who experience symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, should contact their healthcare provider, 24/7 nurse hotline or telehealth program provided by their insurance carrier or employer to discuss whether to be evaluated for testing.

Each test provider will determine if testing is appropriate based on symptoms and test availability in their area.

Michiganders should call the COVID-19 testing site before they go to learn about testing criteria, availability and hours.

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