Surge linked to delay in test results

Quest Diagnostics reported Wednesday that a surge of coronavirus cases across the U. S. is causing a delay in test results.

Quest said the average turnaround time for results of samples is more than two days for most patients.

Priority patients, which include those hospitalized or in nursing homes, will receive test results in two days.

Previously, the turnaround time for results was one day.

Orders from hospital and health care providers for test results have increased by 50% since September, said Kimberly B. Gorode, Quest spokeswoman.

“Assuming national trends continue, we expect COVID- 19 cases and corresponding orders for testing to increase for the foreseeable future, which may cause turnaround times to grow,” Gorode said.

The timeframe for producing test results also is hampered because positive test results have increased by 10%, which limits Quest’s ability to pool specimens to speed up the process.

With the U. S. now in a new and highly dangerous phase of the pandemic, Quest officials said, it is important everyone adhere to the latest CDC guidance, which includes wearing a mask, social distancing and other measures to reduce risk.

“With these simple actions, each of us can help to reduce the spread of COVID19, improve testing and patient care, and potentially save lives,” Gorode said.

In response to the increase in testing demands, Quest Diagnostics is actively seeking talented phlebotomy, specimen management and molecular laboratory staff.

Quest has a dozen medical laboratories across the nation. The closest to Berks County is in Teterboro, N. J., north of Newark.

The logistics for the transportation of samples is headquartered at Reading Regional Airport in Bern Township.