Questions were posed to Mercy Hospital via email and the answers to those questions, just received, are as follows:

“We have not had any patients that have met the criteria for COVID 19 testing at this time.”

“We routinely test patients who present with respiratory illnesses for influenza and other common respiratory infections.”

“The CDC determines which patients will be tested for COVID 19 infection using specific criteria related to their type of symptoms that are presented.  The hospital or practice can only submit COVID 19 testing with the approval of the CDC.”

“We provide masks for patients who have respiratory symptoms to wear during their emergency room or outpatient visit.  This is done in order to protect other patients and staff from exposure to influenza and other communicable respiratory pathogens.  We do not sell or distribute personal protective equipment for home use.”