> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://curriculum.covidstudentresponse.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://curriculum.covidstudentresponse.org/module-6-training-for-clinical-roles/triage.md).

# Triage

**Criteria for Testing**

Testing capacity has been in flux (see [Module 3: Testing Capacity](https://curriculum.covidstudentresponse.org/module-3-current-situation-and-healthcare-response/testing-capacity-and-eligibility) for updates), with resultant changes in testing eligibility protocols. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MA DPH) publishes  updated guidelines with criteria for COVID-19 testing (see below for version as of 4/2/2020). It differentiates between populations recommended to be tested at state versus commercial laboratories. <br>

![](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/d4jXwjOBWVwfVXiDR8diymduVWA0Uuo2ciwNLHqdeyGTmevt1qYT2yQa22b6l_VpvO65RYCRBx31QqQ6lcn2q1IxB5QkmOi0bCQkCgBlEnOzVt77JyvzdblbptZnxGY8ikKLg2Fd)

### **Remote Screening**

Screening can occur remotely through a telephone/virtual visit by guidelines similar to above. Drive-through testing sites are expanding across the country, [including Massachusetts](https://cvshealth.com/newsroom/press-releases/cvs-health-expands-rapid-covid-19-drive-through-testing-sites-massachusetts), and often require that patients fill out [an online screening assessment](https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing) to determine eligibility. With in-house testing increasing at hospitals, institutions are developing their own testing eligibility protocols (see below). The Cleveland Clinic has produced [an online tool](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/landing/preparing-for-coronavirus?utm_campaign=coronavirus-url\&utm_medium=offline\&utm_source=redirect\&utm_content=coronavirus-url&_ga=2.212126743.2068788212.1584840182-1300742023.1582059042)  allowing patients to self-assess for infection risk, with care recommendations based on risk level.

### Triage Guidelines by Hospital

Testing: Hospitals have generally been outlining testing criteria for ambulatory vs emergency department or inpatient settings. Partners-specific guidelines are available [here](https://pulse.partners.org/hub/departments/emergency_preparedness/coronavirus) (note: requires Partners credentials). BILH [provides guidelines on their website.](https://covid-19.bilh.org/covid-19-materials/) Cambridge Health Alliance guidelines are available [here](https://sites.google.com/challiance.org/ncov-quick-guide/home) (note: requires CHA credentials). Of note, most protocols are initially symptom-based (except for select populations such as transplant patients or requiring urgent airway surgery), followed by a prioritization list for symptomatic patients or staff. These reflect a balance of clinical/operational needs for testing and resource availability.&#x20;

Clinical Triage: For a discussion of clinical triage guidelines, see [Module 1: Triage Guidelines. ](https://curriculum.covidstudentresponse.org/module-1-from-bench-to-bedside/management-of-covid-19#triage-guidelines)

*Thought question:*

For a low-risk patient who may not fall under the recommendations to get tested for COVID-19, but who does want to get tested, how might a healthcare worker navigate the conversation about the utility of testing amongst those at highest risk?&#x20;

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