Get the latest information on the COVID-19 coronavirus from our infectious diseases specialist, Dan Fulton, MD.
Frequently Asked Questions
ResourcesVideos and PodcastsInformation about COVID-19 and related clinic policies and procedures. Social MediaFollow our social media channels to see up-to-date information about COVID-19 and related clinic policies and procedures. Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram NewsletterSubscribe to the Extraordinary Health newsletter for updates on COVID-19 and other health topics. |
When should I seek medical care if I'm concerned I may have COVID-19?
If you have any of the symptoms below OR believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please call 515-500-6711.
- Cough
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle pain or Body aches
- Severe headache
- Sore throat
- Loss of smell
- Chills
- Loss of taste
- Fatigue
- Runny nose
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Can I get tested for COVID-19? What are the requirements?
There are defined testing criteria, and supplies are limited. McFarland Clinic is following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) criteria for COVID-19 testing. Only patients with a known exposure or who have symptoms above will be tested.
What is the cost of a COVID test?
If a patient meets IDPH COVID-19 testing criteria and the test is processed through the State Hygienic Lab, there is no cost for the patient. If a test sample is sent to a private reference lab, there may be a cost associated. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance carrier for coverage and to provide the following codes:
- U0002 - COVID lab test - $78.00
- 86769 - COVID antibody test - $85.00
Uninsured Patients
McFarland Clinic offers a discount on COVID testing services for uninsured patients. If a patient is uninsured and has a qualifying COVID-19 service provided, McFarland submits the charges to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) as part of the CARES Act. Generally this charge is reimbursed to McFarland and the patient experiences no out-of-pocket expense for the qualifying service. Please direct any questions to our Business Office.
My employer is requiring a doctor’s note that says I don’t have COVID-19 so I can return to work. How do I get one?
McFarland Clinic will only test patients meeting CDC criteria. The CDC is advising employers: “Do not require healthcare providers to issue notes for employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness to validate their illness or to return to work.” McFarland is following this guidance as outlined in CDC’s Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers. View more information about employer guidance here.
Is it safe to come the clinic? Should I cancel my routine appointments?
McFarland Clinic providers and staff follow standard infection control procedures to protect patients and staff and to control infection. Some of the measures we've taken include signage and screening at all entrances, masking, physical distancing, and frequent cleaning and disinfecting of exam rooms and public spaces. Learn more about our patient and visitor guidelines.
Many McFarland Clinic providers are now offering video visits to allow patients to be seen without coming to the clinic. Availability varies by provider. Call your provider's office or see our Visit Types page for more information.
Can someone come with me to my appointment?
McFarland Clinic is requesting no more than one visitor accompany a patient to his or her appointment.
Questions? Call 211 - IDPH Public Hotline
The Iowa Department of Public Health has established a public hotline for Iowans with general questions about COVID-19. The line is available 24/7 by calling 211.
More Resources
Please refer to these resources for the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 in Iowa and in the United States.
