COVID-19 UPDATe

Due to limited staff, the following changes are being made.
These changes are made to ensure the best quality care we can provide to our patients during this time.

COVID-19 "Coronavirus" Testing

Friday, June 26, 2020 9:00am —1:00pm
Pyramid lake tribal health clinic 200 tests available

Open to all pyramid lake tribal members, plthc patients and residents
within the exterior boundaries of the pyramid lake reservation.

Click the tabs below to learn more about Covid-19.
  • Testing Process
  • Important Reminders
  • ​Home monitoring and self-testing for COVID-19
  • ​Seeking Medical Care or Urgent Care Not Related to COVID-19
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  1. IN-TAKE/SCREENING behind the NIXON STORE there will be TWO LANES—PL EMS will be conducting the Screening Form –STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE. Drive Safely and Slowly.
  2. Patient will be directed to the ENTRANCE of the PLTHC.
  3. RESOURCES TABLE: Information Packets
  4. Follow the National Guard Personnel or PLTHC Staff directions to proceed to TESTING AREA.
  5. TESTING AREA—STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE. TURN YOUR VEHICLE OFF, SET BRAKE. Testing will be conducted by either the National Guard Personnel or PLTHC Staff
  6. Follow the National Guard Personnel or PLTHC Staff directions to EXIT.
  7. Test Results will take up to 7 days from the State of Nevada Testing Laboratory.
  8. RESULTS:
    • NEGATIVE RESULTS will be mailed to you.
    • POSITIVE RESULTS, you will be contacted directly. 
  • Have PATIENCE during the process
  • Be RESPECTFUL to the Staff and the National Guard Personnel AND Each Other
  • DRIVE SAFELY AND SLOWLY
  • LISTEN and FOLLOW directions
  • Be HONEST with the In-Taker/Screening questions—this is for your safety and others.
Home monitoring (or remote monitoring) is one way for people to keep track of their health. Normally, people need to visit their healthcare provider in person to make sure they are not sick or are getting better if they have a health condition. When someone is home monitoring, they can watch their health at home without having to see their provider in person. Patients can do this by recording their progress on a home computer or cellphone and can send this information to healthcare providers electronically.

Because patients do not need to meet their health care providers in person, home monitoring can be more convenient while helping to stop the spread of a disease. This is especially important to help more people from developing COVID-19.

When home monitoring for COVID-19, you will need to be aware of your symptoms and body’s measurements. Your temperature can be taken with the use of a thermometer. If your temperature is at or above 100.4° F (38° C), then you are considered to have a fever2 .

​Your oxygen saturation (how much oxygen is in your blood) can be measured with a pulse oximeter. A normal oxygen saturation is above 95%. If your oxygen saturation is below 95%, it is a sign that you are having difficulty breathing.
​COVID-19 Symptoms
​Body measurements
  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Headache
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle/body aches
  • Body temperature
  • Oxygen saturation
COVID-19 self-testing kits
Because of how quickly SARS-Cov-2 is spreading, the U.S. Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services has issued emergency use authorizations (EUAs). 3 These EUAs allow people to detect the virus or diagnose people with COVID-19, but this does not mean the tests or procedures are approved.
Below are self-testing kits available because of EUAs: These tests will tell you if you currently have COVID-19 and can range from $109 to $150. Some companies can file with your insurance or use federal funds to pay for the test. Before companies send you a test, they will generally ask what your COVID-19 symptoms are and if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

​If you use a COVID-19 home-testing kit, you will need to self-quarantine for 48-72 hours until your test results are available.

Pros and cons of self-testing
PROS
CONS
Self-testing is a form of screening. Screening is meant to detect early stages of the disease so that treatment can start soon.
​If the self-tests are performed incorrectly, the validity (i.e., accuracy) of the test may be affected. This may make false negatives and false reassurance more likely.
Self-testing does not need a healthcare provider to do the test, so tests can be done at the individual’s home. Being able to test at home can help save on time and money.
Contrary to the name, self-testing kits are not diagnostic tests. Results of a self-testing kit (especially when positive) must be followed up with a diagnostic test to confirm someone has the disease.
​Testing at home can help limit person-to-person contact.
Not all results mean the same thing between different tests. Tests may tell you whether you currently are sick or were once sick depending on what they look for.
When should you use a self-testing kit?

​You may be interested in self-testing for COVID-19 if:
  • You have been in contact or live with someone who has COVID-19 
  • Developed COVID-19-like symptoms and/or have abnormal body measurements.
  • Online COVID-19 self-assessments can help you decide if you want to order a selftesting kit, but these assessments are not meant to replace professional health consultations.

If you believe you have COVID-19, contact your primary care provider. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, call 911 and notify them that you believe you have COVID-19.

Download full brochure on Covid-19 Self-Assessments Information:
​In response to COVID-19 many non-essential surgeries, and medical and dental procedures have been disallowed, and consequently cancelled or postponed. What happens if an urgent or emergency situation unrelated to COVID19 occurs and you need medical care? Knowing the level of care you need can ensure that you get the appropriate medical attention while allowing hospitals and urgent care providers to make the best use of their available resources. You’ll need to decide whether an injury or illness requires emergency or urgent care.

Medical Emergencies
If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, call 9-1-1 and go to the emergency room.

This may include, but is not limited to:
  • Coughing or throwing up blood
  • Cardiac arrest or stopped breathing
  • Severe burns
  • Accidental poisoning or overdose
  • Broken bones
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe chest pain or pressure
  • Deep wounds
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • Any injury or illness that may cause harm without immediate treatment.

Don’t Delay Your Care
During this time of uncertainty, you may be apprehensive to visit a hospital or emergency room. Fear and uncertainty should never stop you from seeking care you need. Hospitals and Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities are still offering emergency medical services. Waiting too long to seek care for life-threatening emergencies is a greater risk to your health than the risk of becoming infected with COVID-19.The emergency room may have signs or other indications of precautionary measures or special procedures that they are following to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, so pay close attention before you enter the building. 

Urgent Care
Urgent care services are intended for the treatment of illnesses or injuries that would not result in further disability or death if not treated immediately.

This may include, but is not limited to:
  • Minor injuries
  • Wounds
  • Fractures
  • Nausea
  • Bronchitis and strep throat
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dehydration
  • Minor infections
  • Rash
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea

Going to an Urgent Care Facility
As stay-at-home orders are being lifted and urgent care facilities begin resuming services, it is important to remain aware of COVID-19 precautions that the urgent care center might be taking for your safety. Call the facility ahead of time. They may perform a telephone screen to determine if you have symptoms related to COVID-19. They may also want you to come through a separate entrance, direct you to an alternative location or have more specific instructions before your visit. Remember to wear a mask and maintain social/physical distance when entering an urgent care facility, and follow any special procedures that they may have in place. 

Telehealth and Telemedicine for Non-Emergencies
​Many providers are offering telehealth options for customers who have access to broadband internet. Telehealth providers can provide medical advice, diagnosis of certain conditions, and even prescribe certain drugs without having to come in contact with you. The Indian Health Service has expanded telehealth services across its federal facilities. Ask your local provider if they are providing telehealth or telemedicine options to avoid physically going into the doctor’s office. In some cases, your provider may prefer you come into the office to be diagnosed. 

COVID-19 FAQ
Who Should be Tested for Covid-19
​If you have symptoms of COVID-19, it is up to you, your healthcare provider and/or Tribal health department to decide if you should be tested. Most people with COVID-19 will get better on their own with no medical intervention, and there is no medicine that currently cures COVID-19. However, testing can be helpful in tracking the virus and preventing further spread.

CDC recommends testing using the Viral Test in these circumstances:
  • You have symptoms of COVID-19 infection including: fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, loss of taste or smell, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or sore throat.
    • The highest priority tests should be given to hospitalized patients, healthcare workers, first responders, and people living in ‘congregate living facilities’ (long-term care, prisons, and shelters) with symptoms.
CDC does not have specific guidance for Antibody Testing. The primary purpose of this test is to understand how COVID-19 has spread throughout the US population at this time.

​Your Tribal health department and/or healthcare provider may choose to test you even if you are not exhibiting symptoms based on local guidance and test availability. If you have symptoms, and are seeking medical care or testing, please contact the clinic or testing site beforehand and tell them you think you have COVID-19. This will allow them to protect themselves and other patients from getting sick.
​Where Can I Get Tested?
​Call your Indian Health Service (IHS), Tribal, or urban Indian health facility or Tribal health department to find out where testing is happening in your community. In some communities, separate testing sites have been set up, while in others, the local clinic or health department may offer the test. Some pharmacies may also offer selftesting, although these may be less likely to be accurate.
What Should I Expect During Testing?
​During Viral Testing, your healthcare provider will swab up your nose, and could also swab your throat. If you have a cough, they may also ask you to cough into a cup to collect a sample. Your provider may also choose to test you for other illnesses such as the flu or strep throat. If you use a self-test, you will be asked to swab your own nose. During Antibody Testing, your provider will collect a blood sample, most likely from a finger prick. Testing time varies by location, but tests may take as little as one day, or as long as one week. Some Tribes may also offer rapid viral testing on site, which provides results in minutes. Ask your provider when you should expect the results and how they will be communicated to you. 
What Should I do if the Test is Positive?
Your healthcare provider is the best source of information. Keep them updated on your symptoms, and call them with any questions. Visit www.CDC.gov/coronvirus for full guidance on what to do if you are sick.

Positive Viral Test 

This means you currently have COVID-19.

Keep others from getting sick:
Most people with COVID-19 will not exhibit any outward symptoms, and most people with COVID-19 will get better at home on their own. However, after receiving a positive viral test, it is important you keep others from getting sick.
  • Stay at home except to get medical care. Tell your providers you have COVID-19 before any appointments.
  • Avoid being around other people in public or in your home.
  • Wear a facemask if you will be around other people, including during medical appointments.
  • Try to stay away from people within your home. If you can, stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom. In particular, avoid contact with elders or people at increased vulnerability (i.e., people who are overweight, those with chronic diseases, those with compromised immune systems).
  • Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
  • Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap. If not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Clean surfaces in your home frequently- at least once per day

Seek medical help immediately if you have:
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Pain or pressure in your chest
  • Confusion or trouble staying awake
  • Bluish lips or face
​Tell your healthcare provider or the 911 operator that you have COVID-19 before help arrives or before you arrive at a clinic or hospital.

​Being isolated with COVID-19 can be difficult for many people, and it is normal to feel worried, sad, lonely, or confused. It is important to stay in contact with your loved ones through phone or email, and to do activities you enjoy or find relaxing. If you are struggling with managing your feelings, talk to your healthcare provider to get support from a professional. You can also call the Disaster Distress Helpline for support at 1-800-985-5990. 
When can I stop self-isolation? ​
Once you feel better, you may want to stop isolating. The decision to stop should be made in partnership with your healthcare provider or Tribal health department. In general, you can stop isolating when:
  • You have no fever for at least 72 hours (3 days) without using medicine AND you have no other symptoms AND it has been at least 7 full days since you first got sick. OR
  • You have no fever without using medicine AND you have no other symptoms AND you have two negative COVID-19 viral tests, 24 hours apart.
What if I test positive for the covid-19 antibody test?
​This means you had COVID-19 infection in the past.

If you have symptoms, follow up with your healthcare provider and/or Tribal health department for guidanceyou may need to receive a Viral Test. If you do not have symptoms, you do not need to follow up. Because it is unclear if a positive test provides protection against future infections, and because false positive tests are possible, continue to practice social distancing and other preventative guidelines your Tribe or community has put in place.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THE TEST IS NEGATIVE?
Negative Viral Test: You probably do not have COVID-19 right now. A negative test results does not rule out that you may get sick at a later time. Monitor your symptoms, and talk to your healthcare provider about next steps. Follow your Tribe’s guidance about social distancing and prevention strategies. Continue to wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with others if COVID-19 is spreading in your community, and stay home if you feel sick.

Negative (Non-reactive) Antibody Test
You probably did not have COVID-19 previously. However, this does not rule out a current COVID-19 infection-antibodies usually don’t show up until 1-3 weeks or more after infection. If you have symptoms, follow up with your healthcare provider and/or Tribal Health Department for guidance- you may need to receive a Viral Test. Follow your Tribe’s guidance about social distancing. Continue to wash your hands frequently, avoid contact with others if COVID-19 is spreading in your community, and stay home if you feel sick.
What is covid-19 home monitoring
When a person needs to know if they are sick, a health care provider such as a doctor will first collect a sample from that person. The doctor may collect the person’s blood, sweat, mucus, or saliva for the sample. However, during self-testing, the person can collect their own sample without the help of a doctor. When the sample is ​collected, it is then sent by the person to a laboratory. The laboratory will then look for either a sign of the person’s immune response or for the germ itself. Based on what they find, the laboratory can tell the person whether they are currently sick or were once sick from a specific disease.

A good test is made up of two parts:
  • Sensitivity: how well the test can tell when someone has the disease. Very sensitive screens will always be able to tell when someone is sick, but false positives are more likely.
  • Specificity: how well the test can tell when someone does not have the disease. Very specific screens will always be able to tell when someone is not sick, but false negatives are more likely.
​What’s the difference between SARS-Cov-2 and COVID-19?
SARS-Cov-2 is the name of the virus while coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the name of the illness that is caused by the virus.

​The names are similar to how HIV is the virus and AIDS is the name of the illness as a result of HIV.
​What is Herd Immunity?
​Herd immunity, sometimes called community immunity, occurs when a high percentage of the population is immune to a disease. This immunity can happen through vaccination and/or prior illness thus making the spread of the infectious disease from person to person unlikely. Even individuals not vaccinated (such as newborns and the immunocompromised) are offered some protection because the disease has little opportunity to spread within the population.
​
How Does Herd Immunity Work?
Why Build Herd Immunity?
Herd immunity protects the most vulnerable members of the population. Those who are considered vulnerable include babies who have not received vaccinations, pregnant women and the immunocompromised (e.g., those who have organ transplants or undergoing chemotherapy). If enough people are vaccinated or have immunity against diseases, individuals that are at higher risk and cannot get vaccinated have some protection against infection.

Herd Immunity and COVID-19
There currently is not a vaccine for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. For herd immunity to occur the majority of the population would need to be vaccinated. Therefore, it may not be the best way to prevent the spread of the disease at this time. We are still learning about this new virus. For instance, it is still unknown whether a person can become reinfected and develop COVID-19 more than once. Until a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is a reality, practicing social/physical distancing and other prevention methods is still recommended.

Download Full Herd Immunity Document

Pharmacy

Monday-Thursday
9:00 AM—12:00 PM 
  1. PLAN AHEAD!
  2. CALL FIRST for Refill: 775.574.2600. Be prepared to leave a message. Leave a clear message with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER where you can be reached.
  3. ALLOW up to ONE business day for a call back.
  4. ALLOW up to TWO business days for medication processing.
  5. ​WAIT for a call back for pick-up. ​​

Medical Phone Triage
In Case of Emergency Call 911

Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM—12:00 PM 
  1. Be prepared to leave a message. Leave a CLEAR message with your NAME and PHONE NUMBER where you can be reached.
  2. A Nurse or Provider will call back in the order the calls have been received during business hours or by the next business day. They need this time to review your chart to better prepare for your call.
  3. Outside these hours you can call the: 
  • ​Nurse Hot-Line: 775.982.5757
  • PL EMS-Paramedicine: 775.574.8999 ​

PRC

  1. Call 775.574.1018 for all outside Medical Appointments and Emergency Room visits
  2. ​Leave a Message with:
  • PATIENT NAME
  • PHONE NUMBER
  • APPOINTMENT DATE
  • NAME OF MEDICAL FACILITY 

Hours of Operation

Operational Hours
Monday - Friday 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
CLOSED 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Wednesday - 08:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Pharmacy Hours
Monday - Friday 08:30 AM - 03:30 PM
Wednesday 08:30 AM - 12:00 PM

PYRAMID LAKE TRIBAL HEALTH CLINIC