COVID-19 Testing at UH
COVID-19 tests are not a screening method for coronavirus. Rather, they are used to confirm suspected cases in people with symptoms of infection or to test people who are known to have been exposed to the virus. If you have not been exposed to someone who has tested positive for the virus, it's not necessary to be tested for COVID-19 unless you have symptoms such as fever, fatigue or cough. Patients of any age will be tested regardless of ability to pay, and no copays will be charged for the COVID-19 test.
When and Where to Go for COVID-19 Symptoms and Testing
University Hospitals is testing in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. If you suspect you have COVID-19 because of symptoms or confirmed exposure to someone with the virus, use the guidelines below to determine when and where to go for evaluation and testing.
| COVID-19 Symptoms | What To Do | Where To Go |
|---|---|---|
Severe symptoms:
|
Seek medical attention right away. | Call 9-1-1 or visit the nearest emergency room. |
Mild symptoms:
|
Stay home until you feel better. Get tested if you are not better in 24 hours. |
|
| No symptoms: Exposed to someone who recently tested positive. | Stay home and get tested within 5 days after exposure. Quarantine time may vary based on test results and other factors. |
Learn more about pricing for COVID-19 tests.
Patients should not have any out-of-pocket costs for the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) test, but you should check with your health plan to confirm. Non-hospital lab cost (CPT code: 87635) is $112.50. Visit our Hospital Price Estimator tool for the cost of a COVID-19 (Coronavirus) test in our hospitals.
New Testing Guidelines for Return to Work, School or Play
University Hospitals now tests patients who do not have symptoms but who were recently exposed to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus. Testing should be completed after day five of exposure, but before day ten. This expanded testing is useful for people who need a negative COVID-19 test to return to work, school or play.
COVID-19 Testing at UH Emergency Rooms
For the safety of our patients and staff, if you are concerned you might have COVID-19, do not go to the emergency room for a COVID-19 test if you are asymptomatic or only experiencing mild symptoms. Our emergency rooms provide COVID-19 testing in emergency scenarios only.
If you are unsure of your level of symptoms, use our symptom checker to help you determine if you need emergency care.
Ohio’s First Fully Mobile and Self-contained Testing Center
The University Hospitals mobile testing unit is bringing COVID-19 testing to underserved areas across the region.
Rapid Testing for Employers
University Hospitals now offering COVID-19 rapid antigen testing for location organizations.
Alternative Testing Options
We are experiencing increased demand for COVID-19 evaluation and testing, so please be patient and expect longer than normal wait times. For additional COVID-19 information and testing options, visit the Ohio Department of Health at Coronavirus.Ohio.Gov.
Options for Care
If you experience an illness or injury that requires same-day care, University Hospitals offers alternative options. For orthopedic injuries, such as a sprain or broken bone, visit a UH Orthopedic Injury Clinic. For minor illness or conditions, such as a UTI or sore throat, get started with a UH Virtual Visit.