Don't go to ER just for a COVID test, SLO County Public Health urges as omicron cases surge

Tribune - 1/12/2022

Jan. 12—It may feel all but impossible to get a coronavirus test in San Luis Obispo County these days, but local health officials are asking people to avoid one place in particular in their search: emergency rooms.

According to San Luis Obispo County Public Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein, resources at hospitals across the county are stretched thin due to the latest omicron-spurred surge, with dozens of people flocking to the ER looking only for a COVID test.

"The hospitals are really feeling the pressure again, and particularly they're seeing their emergency departments highly impacted," Borenstein told the SLO County Board of Supervisors during its meeting Tuesday, which was held virtually.

The crowding has made it difficult for those departments to respond to actual medical emergencies while they attempt to help the influx of patients.

Twin Cities Community Hospital Emergency Department Chief Dr. Cinnamon Redd told The Tribune in a statement Tuesday that the number of people coming into the hospital ER only for testing is "one of the biggest challenges" her department and others across the county — and country — are facing.

Redd said a number of those who are coming in to her department tested positive with a rapid test at home and are coming to the ER to get a hospital test to confirm.

"This very quickly stresses resources," she said. "People should know that if you show up just for routine testing, you may be delaying and adversely impacting care of other patients that have true emergency or severe situations — the people impacted could be your neighbors and coworkers."

Because of this, the SLO County Public Health Department is asking people to avoid the emergency room if looking only for a test, and instead go to one of the county's free clinics, Urgent Care, your physician or even local pharmacies to get tested.

"We're really asking the community to help keep the pressure off of our health care system," Borenstein said.

ERs still open to patients with severe symptoms, medical emergencies

Though you should avoid the emergency room if you are only looking for a COVID test, Borenstein advised that you should still seek treatment immediately if you are having a medical emergency, or are exhibiting severe symptoms of coronavirus.

"Certainly if your symptoms are getting severe or worsening, shortness of breath, skin turning blue or pain or pressure in your chest — by all means do use the emergency department or call 911," she said.

Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center Emergency Physician and Chief of Staff Dr. Brad Knox said anyone who is unsure of whether their situation warrants a trip to the ER can call the hospital's Tele-ER hotline, 805-546-7990, to speak with an ER nurse or doctor.

"They can help you decide if coming in is warranted," Knox said in a statement to The Tribune on Tuesday.

This story was originally published January 12, 202210:32 AM.

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