Good Samaritan Physicians Provide Guidance on COVID-19

Good Samaritan continues to see a significant rise in COVID-19 infections, likely related to the predominance of the Omicron variant. Drs. Scott Stine and Kristin Mahan shared that while the symptoms associated with the Omicron variant seem somewhat less severe for many people, there are still some individuals who are at significant risk of disease, hospitalization and death. This includes the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, people with chronic diseases, and those who still remain unvaccinated.

Dr. Mahan says that it is important for the community to know the appropriate steps to take when COVID-19 is suspected. “Anyone with severe symptoms such as chest pain, worsening shortness of breath, severe headache or feeling faint should be seen immediately in an emergency department,” she stated. “Those with more mild symptoms such as congestion, cough, mild chest tightness, sore throat, fever, body aches, or mild to moderate headache should be evaluated by their primary care provider or at one of Good Samaritan’s Convenient Care Clinics.”

Due to the rise in infection, testing availability has become less available. “We are recommending that individuals who are not experiencing symptoms do not get tested,” stated Dr. Stine. “Testing needs to be reserved for those individuals suspected of having COVID with symptoms early in the disease.”

Due to the shortage of state funded tests, a majority of patients being tested at the Convenient Care Clinic will be tested with a molecular test that is resulted from the hospital’s lab. Patients will receive the results of this type of test in 24-48 hours. These tests are not state supplied, therefore the patient will be charged for the test. The rapid antigen tests will only be used at a provider’s discretion when a rapid result is most needed for the patient’s care.

Both Dr. Stine and Mahan strongly encourage individuals to not use the emergency department for COVID testing. COVID testing can be scheduled through the Good Samaritan Convenient Care Clinic at gshvin.org/covidtest or via a MyChart account. Those with COVID symptoms can also call the nurse triage line at 812-885-3331 to see whether or not they should be seen by a provider. The Convenient Care Clinic on Willow Street is accepting walk-ins for those wanting to be seen by a provider. A provider visit at the Williams Bros. location can be made via MyChart.

Click HERE to see Good Samaritan's helpful infographic on choosing where to receive health care.