Gunnison Valley Health to start Community Testing

Gunnison Valley Health to start Community Testing

Beginning October 1, community members of the Gunnison Valley who present without symptoms of COVID-19 can now receive a COVID-19 test.

Gunnison Valley Health CEO, Rob Santilli, said the health system has received many requests to provide testing for asymptomatic community members who may need a test for travel or to attend college.

“The State of Colorado had limited testing to those who presented with COVID-19 symptoms,” Santilli said. “We are pleased to now offer our community a testing solution for those that need or want a test and do not present with COVID-19 symptoms.”

Community members must request the test 48 hours prior through Gunnison Valley Health’s website. The fee for the test is $150 which covers the cost of the test kit and processing of the specimen. The results will be available within two to three days of submission.

Santilli added that he does expect the cost of this COVID-19 test to come down as test kits become more economical.

Public Health Director and Executive Director of Health and Human Services, Joni Reynolds, said Gunnison Valley Health has been an integral organization in providing solutions throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

“Gunnison Valley Health has led the testing in our community,” Reynolds said. “From the very beginning they jumped on board providing expert medical support, leadership, process and data management to help with the County’s COVID-19 response,” she said.

“Their expansion to more testing access for our community is exemplary,” Reynolds commented. “A debt of gratitude is an understatement for my appreciation of Gunnison Valley Health.”

More information about COVID-19 testing for asymptomatic people will be available on Gunnison Valley Health’s website starting October 1.