Penn State Health launches new OnDemand COVID-19 Travel Testing service
People who plan to travel this summer – whether nationally or internationally – may need proof of a negative COVID-19 test to board a plane or train. Penn State Health now offers a new Travel Testing service through its OnDemand app. After the physical testing is completed, results are available in 48 hours or less.
Users can download the free iOS or Android mobile app on their smartphone, tablet or laptop, answer a few questions and be connected to a Penn State Health provider for a virtual travel test screening. The provider can then refer them to one of Penn State Health’s travel testing sites in Berks and Dauphin counties.
Testing is done through a nasopharyngeal swab and is appropriate for adults and children of any age. Results will be posted in the Penn State Health patient portal.
The cost of the test may be covered by insurance but is generally paid out of pocket. The cost is $130 for self-pay. To be eligible for Travel Testing, individuals must be asymptomatic and not exposed to a known COVID-positive patient.
“We are happy to be able to use our virtual health capabilities to satisfy a need experienced by our patients, staff and learners,” says Dr. Chris LaCoe, Penn State Health’s vice president of virtual health. “Our OnDemand app provides an easy, convenient way to connect people to the COVID-19 services they need now as we start to return to pre-pandemic activities.”
The Travel Testing service was developed through a partnership between Penn State Health’s virtual health services and the lab departments at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and St. Joseph Medical Center.
More information about Penn State Health OnDemand is available at PennStateHealth.org/OnDemand. In addition to COVID-19 Travel Testing, users can also access OnDemand Urgent Care for appointments 24 hours, seven days a week – even while travelling.
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