Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Beaumont Health launched a free online COVID-19 risk assessment tool today, March 18, which allows patients to answer a series of questions about their symptoms and help them determine whether to stay home or seek medical attention.
To use the free online risk assessment tool, visit: beaumont.org/coronavirus
After answering the questions, the online tool will suggest what action a patient should take such as:
- contacting a primary care physician
- going to a curbside screening
- seeking treatment at an emergency center
- staying home and monitoring symptoms
“Many people who become infected with COVID-19 can stay home and treat their symptoms with over the counter medication, unless their symptoms become severe. The primary symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath,” Dr. Nicholas Gilpin, Beaumont Health’s medical director of Infection Prevention and Epidemiology, said. “This online risk assessment tool will help our patients better understand what steps they should consider taking if they are not feeling well.”
In addition, patients should also consider calling Beaumont’s Coronavirus hotline, 800-592-4784, or their physician’s office before attempting to get screened. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, please call 911.
“Everyone does not necessarily need to be tested. Most people who become infected with the disease will not experience complications and will recover. They will just need to go home, rest and take over the counter pain medication,” Dr. Gilpin said.
How you can help stop the spread of COVID-19
- Stay home when you are sick (fever, cough, upper respiratory infection symptoms).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating, after coughing or sneezing, and after using the bathroom.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
NOTE: If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or the number for your local emergency service. Beaumont’s online risk assessment tool provides general information based on interim clinical guidance developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The tool DOES NOT provide diagnosis or treatment of COVID-19. It DOES NOT take into consideration a patient’s complete current condition and medical history. It SHOULD NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider. Always consult a medical professional for serious symptoms.