Austin American-Statesman: Here's how get tested for coronavirus in Austin

Where can I find a testing site?

Austin Public Health won't provide a comprehensive list of places to get tested so as to not overload them with walk-ups. Austin Regional Clinic has published their testing sites and are exploring more. They are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday:

‒ 3828 South First St., near Ben White Boulevard in South Austin

‒ 4100 Everett St. in Kyle

‒ 6835 Austin Center Blvd., near Far West Boulevard in Northwest Austin

‒ 940 Hesters Crossing Road in Round Rock

‒ 801 E. Whitestone Blvd., Bldg. C, in Cedar Park

Do patients need to bring a doctor's note?

CommUnityCare does not require a doctor's note for testing. Austin Regional Clinic requires doctor approval for a test through a telemedicine visitation.

Who could be turned away from being tested?

Because of a shortage of tests nationwide, local clinics and providers are only testing certain people. CommUnityCare said it is following CDC guidelines and testing those who have fever higher than 99.6, a cough and shortness of breath or those who have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 outside of their household. Austin Public Health said high-priority individuals, such as public safety and medical personnel, may get tested quicker, but the turnaround time for test results are all the same.

What's the test like?

It's similar to a flu test, in which a swap is stuck up the patient's nose.

How long will it take for results to come back?

Although there have been delays in test results for those who were swabbed a few weeks ago, Austin Public Health, CommUnityCare and Austin Regional Clinic say test results will be available up to four days after the swabbing.

How are patients notified?

A staff member from the test site operator, not the lab, will notify patients of results. Austin Public Health will email patients who tested negative and will call and email those who have tested positive.