We’re asking public health officials and experts to answer your questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. Keep in mind that this information does not constitute professional medical advice. For questions regarding your own health, always consult a physician.
An anonymous audience member has been exhibiting symptoms similar to those commonly associated with COVID-19, and they wanted to know: “I don't have insurance at the moment since I don’t have a job yet. Can I get tested?”
Here’s an explanation from Annette Sy, chief nursing officer at Keck Medical Center. She’s working with the hospital’s command center to help prepare it for the COVID-19 outbreak:
“Their options are still to reach out to their care provider. To understand better if they need to be tested or not, is the first thing they should do. I would start first with your care provider. Call in… many care providers are doing telemedicine visits. They will screen you at that point to see what symptoms you’re having. Many patients with COVID-19 can be cared for at home. If you can speak to the doctor or the nurse over the phone, [then] maybe they can set up a telemedicine visit for you and start with that… Many physicians and facilities are not charging [for this service]. I can’t speak for everybody. But please just start off with your care provider.”
MORE ON CORONAVIRUS:
SOME STRAIGHT TALK ABOUT COVID-19
We're all living through this extraordinary and frightening pandemic. The vast majority of our newsroom has been working from home (here's some advice on that) since March 11 to bring you calm, helpful reporting. We are answering your questions and taking more.
We're here to help. And if you can help support that effort financially, we'd be grateful.
DON'T MISS ANY L.A. CORONAVIRUS NEWS
Get our daily newsletter for the latest on COVID-19 and other top local headlines.
Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
Support our free, independent journalism today. Donate now.
