Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Diagnostic testing
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What if I have symptoms and decline to have a PCR test done?
If you have symptoms and do not get tested, you will not know for sure whether you have COVID-19 and could spread this infection to others on campus.
In addition, if you are infected now, you might test positive for up to three months. If you test positive at a later date, such as before you travel, it may cause difficulties for you.
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Can I trust a negative result early in the course of my symptoms?
When infected with the SARS-CoV-2 variants BA-4 and BA-5, it may take 3–5 days for an individual to develop a positive test. Students whose symptoms seem consistent with COVID-19 but are testing negative with a home test should continue their self-isolation and make an appointment with a medical provider at the Decker Student Health Services Center via the student patient portal. -
Why is it that only students with symptoms may get tested for COVID-19 at DSHSC?
DSHSC runs a diagnostic service for students. Diagnostic testing is only done on people who have symptoms or who have been directly exposed to COVID-19. The accuracy of diagnostic COVID-19 test results depends on the pre-test probability of the person being tested actually having COVID-19. This, in turn, depends on whether symptoms are present. DSHSC wants to have the most accurate results possible for students. -
Can I get a hard copy of my test results after receiving a PCR test at DSHSC?
You may request a hard copy of your test results by sending a secure message to the provider "OnlineNurs" in the student patient portal. You will receive a copy of your lab result by return secure message within 5–7 days. -
Do I need to upload my positive test results if the positive test was administered
on campus?
No. Students do NOT need to upload proof of a positive COVID test to the Decker student health portal if the test was administered at Decker Student Health Services Center. -
What tests are used at DSHSC?
Testing will be done using a Lucira Rapid PCR test.
Reporting positive results received from a home test or an off-campus provider
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What do I do if I have a positive home test for COVID-19 or test positive on a test
administered off campus?
If you have a positive home COVID-19 test while you are in Binghamton, regardless of whether you live on or off campus, follow the steps on the home test webpage.
Residential students who test positive on a test administered by a provider off campus must report their test to the University. Follow the same instructions as reporting a home test.