A Message From Christian Fletcher
As we near the two-year mark, the pandemic remains unpredictable. However, one thing we know for certain about COVID-19 is the invaluable importance of continued testing. This was true in the beginning, it still is today, and it will be tomorrow.
Early in the pandemic, we quickly ramped up testing through our companies LifeBrite Laboratories and LifeBrite Hospital Group. Testing was paramount, and we were incredibly grateful to have access to multiple resources. It allowed us to provide increased testing opportunities and quicker results.
LifeBrite was one of the first facilities to allow asymptomatic individuals the ability to receive testing. We made our mobile collection process a priority, bringing COVID-19 testing directly to businesses and other locations. With our hospitals located in rural areas, we were able to provide the service in often overlooked parts of the country.
In retrospect, we are confident we made the responsible decision to focus on testing and that it made a difference. We were happy to see other healthcare entities felt the same. Although the situation looks different today, testing is no less important. It’s essential in order for us to control the spread.
Whether you’ve been vaccinated or not, it’s wise to get tested if you’re exhibiting symptoms or have recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Is it an unrelenting cough due to seasonal allergies or a symptom of COVID-19? The only way to know for sure is by testing. When receiving a positive test result, the appropriate quarantine measures obviously help to decrease the spread.
Research experts rely upon testing statistics to better understand the trends of the pandemic. Regular testing can help provide answers regarding outbreaks occurring in certain areas and communities.
When the delta variant began taking hold in America, COVID-19 test results gave the CDC a clearer perspective. Testing helped scientists realize the delta variant was more infectious compared to others. Additionally, testing results are important to track, because the study of that data can assist in guiding treatment and vaccine efforts.
As vaccinations continue and age eligibility broadens, COVID-19 testing helps us better understand the efficacy of vaccines. We’re all well aware vaccinated individuals can contract COVID-19 and spread the disease to others. However, the vaccine can prevent contagion and greatly reduces serious infection and hospitalization. Thanks to COVID-19 testing, these findings prove the vaccines are doing their job thus far.
COVID-19 testing is a tool we should continue to use regularly as we navigate the challenges of this evolving pandemic. In order to reach that much-anticipated goal of having the pandemic under control, we must stay diligent.
Atlanta-based LifeBrite, led by CEO Christian Fletcher, operates LifeBrite Community Hospital of Early, LifeBrite Community Hospital of Stokes, and LifeBrite Laboratories. He first published this article via MDAtl.com