COVID-19 Testing

You must have a physician’s order and scheduled appointment to get a COVID-19 test through a MWHC drive-through testing center.

If you do not have a primary care doctor, you can contact the Health Link Nurse Line at 540.741.1100 for a nurse assessment and referral to a Mary Washington Medical Group provider. You will need to have a virtual or in-person visit with the Mary Washington Medical Group provider to assess your need for a COVID-19 test.

You may also go to Mary Washington Urgent Care for treatment if you need immediate care and cannot wait for an appointment. Both Mary Washington Urgent Care locations can screen you for a COVID-19 test.

If you do have a primary care doctor, call the practice for a virtual or in-person appointment.

1. Call your primary care doctor to determine if you meet the criteria for a COVID-19 test. Your doctor may order other tests first to rule out common illnesses such as the flu or other viruses.
2. If your doctor confirms that you need a COVID-19 test, your doctor will order the test through MWHC. When MWHC receives the order, a scheduling representative will call you to schedule a time and location for your COVID-19 test.
3. Download the My MWHC app and register for MyChart if you do not already have the app. Test results will be loaded in MyChart. Click here for instructions on using MyChart.

Tests can often be scheduled for the following day.

COVID-19 Testing for Obstetric Patients

Upon your admission to Mary Washington or Stafford Hospital for delivery, you will be tested for COVID-19.

If you are scheduled for a c-section, you will receive a physician’s order by your OB to have a COVID-19 test done seven days prior to your scheduled procedure.

What if I test positive for COVID-19 upon admission or prior to my c-section?

We are taking extra steps to make our facilities as safe as possible so we can continue to provide quality care to our patients. If you test positive for COVID-19, special protocols are put in place to keep you, our associates and other patients safe. Except in rare occurrences where mom or baby have severe symptoms and need special care, such as the ICU or NICU, you will not be separated from your baby, even if you test positive for COVID-19.

Reducing the likelihood of exposure prior to delivery is the best way for you to have the delivery experience you’ve anticipated. These include wearing a mask outside of the home, quality handwashing, social distancing, and avoiding crowds especially non-essential outings or gatherings.

For questions, contact your OB or call MWHC Health Link at 540.741.1100.

1. If possible, the patient being tested should sit in the rear right passenger seat of the vehicle. This is the safest option for the least amount of exposure for the patient, driver, and healthcare provider conducting the test.
2. Follow the entrance signs at the location you are scheduled to the car queue. You may have to wait for other cars in front of you to complete their testing.
3. When signaled, pull to the registration stop and complete the check-in with the staff member. Stay in your car unless instructed otherwise.
4. When signaled, pull to the testing stop for the nasal or throat swab test. Stay in your car unless instructed otherwise.
5. When your test is complete, you can exit the line and return home. Test results will be sent to the ordering doctor.

1. Continue self-care at home and try to separate from others in your home. If your conditions worsen, do not delay care. Call your provider or go to the nearest emergency department.
2. Test results can take one to three days for results. Results will be sent to your ordering provider. MWHC will call you if you have a positive test result. All positive results are reported to the Virginia Department of Health.

Remember, there is no approved treatment for COVID-19. Many patients treat their symptoms based on their doctor’s recommendations and recover well at home. If you experience worsening symptoms, a high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptom, come to the emergency department immediately.

Download this self care tip sheet to help you prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 to others.

Fact Sheet for tests for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) using the Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 test

(You will be notified if your test uses this method.)

Patient fact sheet

Healthcare provider fact sheet

Fact Sheet for tests for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) using the Aptima SARS-CoV-2 test

(You will be notified if your test uses this method.)

Patient fact sheet

Healthcare provider fact sheet

Fact Sheet for tests for COVID-19 using the Simplexa™ COVID-19 Direct assay - DiaSorin Molecular LLC

(You will be notified if your test uses this method.)

Patient fact sheet

Healthcare provider fact sheet