In accordance with the CDC’s COVID-19 County Level of Community Transmission guidance, an updated version of the LMHS visitation policy will be in effect beginning Monday, April 18:
- Visitors/support persons are allowed to visit patients at any time, with the exception of patients who are positive with COVID-19. Patients who are positive with COVID-19 may have one visitor at a time who must wear the necessary PPE. Children under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult.
- For visitation information regarding Hospice of Central Ohio, located on the LMH Sixth Floor, please call (740) 344-0379.
- Per CDC guidance, all visitors and support persons must wear a face mask when in the Hospital.
- The LMH Main Entrance and the Emergency Department (ED) entrance are the only doors open to the Hospital. All other doors have signage directing visitors to the Main Entrance.
- Informational signage will be displayed at these entrances for visitors to review and self-screen for possible COVID-19 infection.
- If screened patients at the ED entrance have severe symptoms related to COVID-19, they are isolated in a comfortable area for the protection of other patients.
- Those visiting a patient with COVID-19 will receive a color-coded badge to wear at all times.
- Visitors are expected to perform hand hygiene at the point of screening, before entering the patient room, and when leaving the patient room.
- Visitors/support persons who are coughing or show signs of illness, or who do not follow these standards, will be kindly asked to leave.
- Vendors must check in at the Purchasing entrance at the rear of the Hospital. The vendor will be given a badge to wear and escorted to the area by the department manager.
- Medical Records and Cashiers Office are open.
- The Main Street Café and Main Street Coffee are closed for drop-in visits and those visiting a patient with COVID-19. Patrons must be at the Hospital as a visitor or support person.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information
The FDA has approved two vaccines to prevent COVID-19:
- Moderna/Spikevax COVID-19 vaccine
- Pfizer/BioNTech/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine
The FDA has authorized the emergency use of two vaccines to prevent COVID-19:
- Novavax COVID-19 vaccine
- Johnson & Johnson Janssen COVID-19 vaccine
The Moderna/Spikevax and Pfizer/BioNTech/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA vaccines, a new technique that works by replicating the genetic code of a virus to trick the body into producing antibodies without requiring the virus itself to be injected. An mRNA vaccine contains instructions that direct cells in the body to make antigens that will induce an immune response to prevent or fight disease. Once antibodies are created, the body acquires a defense against infection.
- Two injections are needed in order for the vaccine to be effective
- mRNA vaccines do not use the live virus that causes COVID-19
- mRNA is not able to alter or modify a person’s genetic makeup (DNA) – the mRNA from a COVID-19 vaccine never enters the nucleus of the cell
- Re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, and it is advised to get a COVID-19 vaccine despite a previous positive test for the virus
The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is a protein vaccine that packages harmless proteins of the COVID-19 virus alongside another ingredient called an adjuvant that helps the immune system respond to the virus in the future. Vaccines using protein subunits have been used for more than 30 years in the United States, beginning with the first licensed hepatitis B vaccine. Other protein subunit vaccines used in the United States today include those to protect against influenza and whooping cough.
The Johnson & Johnson Janssen COVID-19 vaccine is a single-dose vaccine that uses viral vector technology. It contains an inactivated common cold virus called adenovirus 26, which is modified to carry the genetic information of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The modified adenovirus cannot multiply, so it does not cause infection. When the vaccine is administered, the modified adenovirus enters the cells and delivers the viral DNA, which causes the cells to produce coronavirus proteins to mimic the virus and prompt an immune response in the body. If a vaccinated person is exposed to COVID-19, their immune system now is able to recognize the virus and prevent infection.
Some side effects from the vaccines are expected as normal signs that the body is building immune protection. These side effects may limit the ability to do daily activities, but should subside in a few days. Common side effects include:
- Pain and swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Chills
- Tiredness
- Headache
It is important to continue using all the tools available to help stop the spread of the virus including:
- Covering your mouth and nose with a mask when around others
- Staying at least 6 feet away from others
- Avoiding crowds
- Washing your hands often
For more information about the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: https://www.fda.gov/media/144638/download
For more information about the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: https://www.fda.gov/media/144414/download
For more information about the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: https://www.fda.gov/media/159898/download
For more information about the Johnson & Johnson Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: https://www.fda.gov/media/146305/download
Additional information about the COVID-19 vaccine may be found here:
Ohio Department of Health Coronavirus Website – COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/general-resources/frequently-asked-questions+covid-19-vaccine
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – COVID-19 Vaccines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html
LMH is currently offering the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for individuals who are 12 years of age and older, and the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for adults, ages 18 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to receive their COVID-19 vaccination.
Location: Doctors Park Building 3, 1272 West Main Street, in Newark
Hours of Operation:
12:00 Noon - 5:00 p.m. (W)
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (F)
- Walk-in or by appointment
- Click here to schedule an appointment for your first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine
- The CDC has updated its COVID-19 vaccine guidance to recommend that some Americans who have received their first mRNA vaccine dose, particularly males ages 12 to 39 years, wait up to eight weeks before getting their second dose.
- Immunocompromised individuals also are eligible to recveive a third dose of mRNA vaccine
- See eligibility requirements below in the "Third Dose of mRNA Vaccines for Immunocompromised Individuals" header
General Information
- There is no out-of-pocket cost to individuals receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. LMH bills private and public insurance for the vaccine administration fee. For uninsured patients, this fee will be reimbursed through the Health Resources and Services Administration's Provider Relief Fund
- Please bring a photo ID and insurance card to the appointment
- Those who need transportation to a scheduled appointment at the LMH COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic may contact the LMH Ride program at (220) 564-7433 (RIDE)
- For any general questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, please call (220) 564-4741
Please consider the following information prior to scheduling a COVID-19 vaccination appointment:
- The COVID-19 vaccine now may be administered with other vaccines, regardless of timing. Individuals may receive the COVID-19 vaccine on the same day as they receive other vaccines and do not need to wait 14 days before or after administration of other vaccines to receive the COVID-19 vaccine
- Those who have a current, known COVID-19 infection should defer receiving the vaccine until symptoms are resolved and the quarantine period has been satisfied
- Individuals who were diagnosed with COVID-19 and received monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma during treatment must wait 90 days before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine
The COVID-19 Booster Clinic is located at Doctors Park Building 3, 1272 West Main Street in Newark, and is open Wednesdays, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m., and Fridays, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., for walk-in or scheduled appointments. The CDC now states that all adults, ages 18 and older, are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster vaccination, and children, ages 12 to 17, are eligible to receive the Pfizer booster vaccination.
Those who need transportation to a scheduled appointment may contact the LMH Ride program at (220) 564-7433 (RIDE). For any general questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine or booster or to schedule a booster dose, please call (220) 564-2580.
Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty
If an individual received the Pfizer/Comirnaty vaccine for the primary series, booster doses can be given to those who are 12 years and older.
Dosage: The Pfizer/Comirnaty booster dose is the same dosage given for the primary series.
Mix-and-match booster: Adults 18 and older who received the primary series of the Pfizer/Comirnaty vaccine and are eligible to receive a booster dose may get a booster dose of any COVID-19 vaccine approved or authorized for use in the United States.
Children, ages 12 to 17, can only receive a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine booster.
First booster dose timing: At least five months following completion of the standard primary Pfizer series (two doses spaced at least 21 days apart).
Second booster dose eligibility and timing: A second booster dose of the Pfizer/Comirnaty vaccine may be administered to individuals 50 years of age and older, or certain immunocompromised individuals 12 years of age and older, at least four months after the receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine.
Moderna/Spikevax
If an individual received the Moderna/Spikevax vaccine for the primary series, booster doses can be given to adults who are 18 years and older.
Dosage: The Moderna/Spikevax booster dose is NOT the same dosage given for the primary series (0.5 mL). The booster dose is a half-dose (0.25 mL).
Mix-and-match booster: Any individual who received the primary series of the Moderna/Spikevax vaccine and is eligible to receive a booster dose may get a booster dose of any COVID-19 vaccine approved or authorized for use in the United States.
First booster dose timing: At least five months following completion of the primary Moderna series (two doses spaced at least 28 days apart).
Second booster dose eligibility and timing: A second booster dose of the Moderna/Spikevax vaccine may be administered to individuals 50 years of age and older, or certain immunocompromised individuals 18 years of age and older, at least four months after the receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine.
Johnson & Johnson/Janssen
Booster doses are authorized for all recipients of the single-dose Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. Anyone age 18 or older who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine can get a booster dose at least two months following the initial dose.
Dosage: The Johnson & Johnson booster dose is the same formulation and dosage given for the first dose.
Mix-and-match booster: Any individual who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may get a booster dose of any COVID-19 vaccine approved or authorized for use in the United States. The LMH Vaccination Booster Clinic will not have the Johnson & Johnson booster available, but recipients may choose between Pfizer/Comirnaty or Moderna boosters.
Booster dose timing: At least two months following the first dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
The CDC recommends COVID-19 primary series vaccines for everyone ages 6 months and older, and COVID-19 boosters for everyone ages 5 years and older, if eligible. Clinical studies show that the COVID-19 vaccine provides many benefits and is the best way to battle the virus and end the pandemic.
Benefits of receiving the vaccine include:
- Protecting your child from severe COVID-19 infection and potential hospitalization
- Protecting friends and family members, including siblings who are not eligible for vaccination
- Keeping children in school and helping them safely participate in sports and other extracurricular activities
- Reducing the spread of COVID-19 within the community
Appointments are available for children to receive their COVID-19 vaccination primary series or booster dose. Please call (220) 564-2580 to schedule your child's vaccination appointment.
How is the vaccine for children administered?
Pfizer-BioNTech
6 months through 4 years: 3 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech in the primary series. The first and second doses are separated by three to eight weeks and the second and third doses are separated by at least eight weeks. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system), the first and second doses are separated by three weeks, and the second and third doses are separated by at least eight weeks.
5 to 11 years old: 2 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech in the primary series, given 3–8 weeks apart. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system) should get a 3rd dose at least 4 weeks after their 2nd dose in the primary series. According to the CDC, the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine can be administered at the same time as a flu vaccination or other childhood immunization.
Moderna
6 months through 17 years: 2 doses of Moderna in the primary series, given 4-8 weeks apart. For people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system), the first and second doses are separated by four weeks, and the second and third doses are separated by at least four weeks.
How do we know the vaccines for children are safe?
COVID-19 vaccines have undergone—and will continue to undergo—the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history. Evidence from the hundreds of millions of COVID-19 vaccines already administered in the United States, and the billions of vaccines administered globally, demonstrates that they are safe and effective.
What are the side effects of the vaccine for children?
Common side effects include pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever and nausea. Severe reactions to the vaccine are rare.
Why do younger children need this vaccine?
Although COVID-19 tends to be milder in children than in adults, children infected with the virus can become severely ill and even hospitalized. Those with underlying medical conditions are more at risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Children who get COVID-19 can develop serious complications, such as multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C), a condition where different body parts become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes or gastrointestinal organs.
My child had COVID-19. Do they still need to be vaccinated?
It is unclear how long COVID-19 antibodies stay in the body and protect us from the virus. It is important for your child to be vaccinated even if they had COVID-19 because there is a possibility of re-infection.
What should I do if I still have questions about my child getting the vaccine?
Your pediatrician can help you make the right decision for your child. You also can click here for more information.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has updated its emergency use authorizations for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines to include a recommended third dose for individuals, ages 12 and older, with moderate to severe immunosuppression who are at heightened risk for serious outcomes from COVID-19. This includes solid organ transplant recipients or those who are “diagnosed with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise,” according to the FDA. This group of eligible individuals is estimated to include less than 3 percent of the U.S. population and 3 percent of Ohioans.
In addition, certain immunocompromised children, ages 5 through 11, also are eligible to receive a third primary dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
The CDC has further defined this eligible population to include:
- Individuals undergoing active treatment for cancer (solid tumor and hematologic malignancies).
- Individuals who have received a solid-organ transplant and are taking immunosuppressive therapy.
- Individuals who have received a CAR-T-cell or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within two years of transplant or taking immunosuppression therapy).
- Individuals with moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).
- Individuals with advanced or untreated HIV infection.
- Individuals undergoing active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids (i.e., ≥20mg prednisone or equivalent per day), alkylating agents, antimetabolites, transplant-related immunosuppressive drugs, cancer chemotherapeutic agents classified as severely immunosuppressive, tumor-necrosis (TNF) blockers, and other biologic agents that are immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory.
At-home COVID-19 testing kits are no longer available for pickup at 131 McMillen Drive in Newark. LMHS will announce when supplies become available again on our website and Facebook page.
The BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test Kit is manufactured by Abbott and contains a BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag card, a single-use extraction reagent bottle, and a nasal swab. Users will initiate their testing session through a computer or mobile device by visiting ohio.emed.com and clicking the Start Testing button at the top, right-hand corner of the screen. Users will be connected with an eMed Certified Guide to begin the testing process. Once the test is complete, results are available in 15 minutes.
Learn more about the at-home COVID-19 testing kit here: https://ohio.emed.com/
BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Ag Card instructions for use can be found here: https://www.fda.gov/media/141570/download
View the video on how to use eMed’s COVID-19 testing kit here: https://youtu.be/OahDJZDfffQ
Individuals may be tested for COVID-19 at select primary care physician offices or one of three LMH Urgent Care locations, where a clinician will determine if testing is appropriate. Please visit one of the locations below if experiencing COVID symptoms – only those with severe symptoms should present at the Emergency Department.
The following LMHP primary care physician offices currently offer testing services. You may only visit a physician if you are established as a current patient. Please call in advance to request testing:
- Marita Moore, M.D., Family Practice – Doctors Park 2: (220) 564-4824
- Katrina Timson, M.D., Family Practice – East Main: (220) 564-1830
- Michael Barth, M.D., Family Practice – Granville: (220) 564-1961
- Kevin Graham, M.D., Family Practice – Granville: (220) 564-1961
- Navin Muni, M.D., Family Practice – Granville: (220) 564-1961
- Andrew Seipel, M.D., Family Practice – Licking Valley: (220) 564-1720
- Garth Bennington, M.D., Family Practice – West Main: (220) 564-1700
- Talya Greathouse, M.D., Family Practice – West Main: (220) 564-1700
- Sean Gallagher, M.D., Pediatrics – East Main: (220) 564-1840
- Brian Klima, M.D., Pediatrics – Pataskala: (220) 564-1925
- Hanaa Abdelmessih, M.D., Pediatrics – Tamarack: (220) 564-4949
- Richard Baltisberger, M.D., Pediatrics – Tamarack: (220) 564-4949
- Shelley Gittens, M.D., Pediatrics – Tamarack: (220) 564-4949
- Jimisha Patel, M.D., Pediatrics – Tamarack: (220) 564-4949
- Elizabeth McIntosh, M.D., Family Practice – Johnstown: (220) 564-1810
- Keri Hershberger, M.D., Family Practice – Pataskala: (220) 564-1905
- Nina Hourmouzis, M.D., Licking Memorial Internal Medicine: (220) 564-4805
- Nishi Patel, M.D., Licking Memorial Internal Medicine: (220) 564-4805
- David Koontz, D.O., Licking Memorial Internal Medicine: (220) 564-4805
LMH Urgent Care facilities are located in the following areas:
- Urgent Care – Granville: (220) 564-7502
- Urgent Care – Pataskala: (220) 564-7602
- Urgent Care – Downtown Newark: (220) 564-7702
Click here for location addresses and hours of operation.
- Photo identification is required.
- When arriving, please remain in your vehicle and call the appropriate number listed above for further instruction. A staff member will complete the registration process over the phone and will provide additional directives for testing.
- A face mask is required at all times during your visit.
- The staff will complete a screening to determine if testing is appropriate.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines recommend continued use of face masks and social distancing for hospitals and healthcare settings, even for those individuals who are fully vaccinated. In accordance with these requirements, Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) requires all patients, visitors and employees to wear a mask and maintain a distance of six feet from others while inside Licking Memorial Hospital, visiting a physician’s office or other LMHS facility. The mask requirement also is in keeping with the State of Ohio’s orders, which follow CDC recommendations. These safety measures are vital in continuing the efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, and ensure the protection and wellbeing of our community. Guidelines for wearing face coverings can be found here.
Patients may contact their physician to schedule surgeries or procedures that were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients should discuss with their physicians any new or chronic conditions that may have a significant impact on their quality of life and make a joint decision about any procedure. In order to comply with social distancing and other restrictions set forward by Governor DeWine, Hospital visitation restrictions remain in place. Patients are allowed one support person to accompany them to their procedure. Visitors are required to wear a face covering and practice social distancing measures.
Proactive prevention and planning are essential to containing the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). As with any infectious disease, proper hygiene techniques will help reduce the spread of a virus. The following prevention guidelines are suggested for use at home, work, school and community locations:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – dry hands with a clean towel or air dry hands.
- Cover your mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing – immediately deposit tissue in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with those with illness, and stay home when you are sick to treat symptoms. Seek prompt medical attention if your illness worsens (e.g., fever, cough and difficulty breathing). Before seeking care, call your healthcare provider and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the healthcare provider's office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
- Keep hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) and tissues on hand.
- Keep household cleaning spray or wipes readily available.
- Clean "high-touch" surfaces daily. These include counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables.
- Do not share personal items such as water bottles.
- The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings (masks) in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. This recommendation is based on studies that show a significant proportion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and can transmit the virus to others in close proximity, through speaking, coughing, sneezing or other means.
- Be prepared to cancel non-essential travel plans.
- Get a flu shot this season if you have not already. Although it will not protect against COVID-19, it can provide greater immunity against influenza or lessen symptoms if contracted, which may reduce the strain on healthcare facilities.
What is the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The CDC reports the virus is mainly thought to be spread between people who are in close contact (within 6 feet) with one another or through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Droplets can land in the mouth or nose of nearby people or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
It may be possible to get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
COVID-19 affects people in different ways. Those infected report a wide range of symptoms – from mild symptoms to severe illness.
Symptoms that may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
This list does not show all possible symptoms. Other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Individuals at highest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 include those with pre-existing pulmonary disease, those with compromised immune systems, infants and the elderly. The vast majority of patients will have mild/moderate symptoms and do not require hospitalization.
What should I do if I am experiencing symptoms of COVID-19?
If you suspect you are sick with COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and help prevent the disease from spreading to other people:
- Stay home except to get medical care, and separate yourself from other people in your home.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes.
- Clean your hands often.
- Contact your primary care provider if your illness is worsening. Tell your provider that you have coronavirus-like symptoms, so they can take steps to keep other people from getting infected.
- You may visit one of the three LMH Urgent Care facilities, where a clinician will determine if testing is appropriate.
How can I prevent or treat COVID-19?
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure to the virus. However, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, such as:
- Stay home when you are sick
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
- Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when you sneeze or cough
- Wash your hands often with soap and water (20 seconds or longer) or use alcohol hand rub if no soap and water are available
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands or after touching surfaces
- Clean and disinfect "high-touch" surfaces often
If I have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, what should I do?
The CDC provides the following guidance if you have had close contact – within six feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period – with someone who has a confirmed case of COVID-19:
If you:
- Received a booster dose of a vaccine
- Completed the primary series of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine within the last six months
- Completed the primary series of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine within the last two months
Wear a mask around others for 10 days, then take a COVID-19 test on the fifth day after exposure, if possible.
If you:
- Completed the primary series of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine over six months ago and did NOT receive a booster dose
- Completed the primary series of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine over two months ago and did NOT receive a booster dose
- Are unvaccinated
Stay home for five days, then take a COVID-19 test on the fifth day after exposure, if possible. Continue to wear a mask around others for five additional days. If you are unable to quarantine at home, you must wear a mask for 10 days.
If symptoms of the virus develop, you should be tested and stay home. Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and may include the following:
- Fever of 100.4 or higher
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are exhibiting any of these emergency warning signs for COVID-19:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
Call 911 or call ahead to the Emergency Department. Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.
For more information regarding COVID-19 symptoms, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?
Per CDC guidance, anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 – regardless of vaccination status – should stay home for five days or as long as a fever is present. If you have no symptoms or symptoms are improving after five days, you are free to leave your house; however, you should continue to wear a mask around others for five additional days.
Can I be tested for COVID-19 in the Emergency Department?
Patients may be tested for COVID-19 at the Emergency Department during non-Clinic hours or for the following emergency symptoms:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
Upon arrival, they will be assessed for symptoms of the virus. Those who present with symptoms are isolated for the protection of other patients. Asymptomatic patients will not be tested for COVID-19.
What is the process for testing so that I can return to work?
Return to work testing is done on an outpatient basis and can be scheduled by contacting your primary care physician.
How can I get my test results?
COVID-19 test results may take 1 to 2 days to receive.
To acquire a copy of your COVID-19 test results, please follow one of the two below options:
- Sign in to your MyChart account at MyChart.LMHealth.org. If you do not have an account, you can create one here.
- Click on the Menu button and scroll down to select COVID-19 under My Record.
- From there, you can review your personal history of COVID-19 tests and vaccination status.
- Complete the Authorization for Release of Medical Information form, which is available at the LMHS website: https://www.lmhealth.org/PDF-Files/Forms/patient_info_release.aspx
- Return form to LMH through one of the following methods:
- Scan/fax to: (220) 564-7717
- Mail to: LMH Medical Records, 1320 West Main Street, Newark, Ohio 43055
- Contact the LMH Medical Records Department at (220) 564-4122 to obtain results.
What is the cost of testing?
Patients should check with their health insurance plan to determine if there is an out-of-pocket expense for COVID-19 testing.
Who can I talk to about my concerns for COVID-19?
Please visit the Ohio Department of Health website at: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home, or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). The Call Center is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., each day including weekends.
If you need additional information or have any general questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine or booster after reviewing the answers below, please call (220) 564-2580.
Who is eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster?
The CDC recommends a booster for anyone who completed the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna series more than 5 months ago, as well as anyone who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine more than 2 months ago. See the COVID-19 Booster Vaccines header for detailed information.
How do I schedule a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose at LMH?
The LMH COVID-19 Booster Clinic has been established at Doctors Park Building 3, located at 1272 West Main Street in Newark. The Clinic is open Wednesdays, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m., and Fridays, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., for walk-in or scheduled appointments. Click here to schedule an appointment.
Please note that recipients may choose between Pfizer/Comirnaty or Moderna boosters, but the Johnson & Johnson booster is not available at the LMH Vaccination Booster Clinic.
Are booster doses the same formulation as existing COVID-19 vaccines?
There is no difference in formulation between COVID-19 booster doses and current COVID-19 vaccines. However, the Moderna vaccine booster is a half dose (0.25 mL) of the amount given (0.5 mL) for the primary series. The Pfizer/Comirnaty booster dose is the same dosage given for the primary series.
Is it possible to get a different COVID-19 vaccine brand as booster dose than I received for my primary series?
Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) allow eligible individuals to choose which vaccine brand they receive as a booster dose, regardless of which was used in the primary series.
Is there a cost to receive a COVID-19 booster dose?
COVID-19 vaccines, including a booster dose, are available to everyone at no cost.
Do I need to provide a prescription or other documentation to receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose?
Individuals can self-report their eligibility and receive a booster dose.
Do I have to receive a booster dose in order to be considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19?
No. At this time, individuals are still considered fully vaccinated two weeks after completing a primary series (two doses of the Pfizer/Comirnaty or Moderna vaccines, or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine).
I also need to receive other vaccinations. Should I delay a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose?
According to CDC recommendations, no waiting period is necessary between receiving other vaccines – such as flu, shingles or pneumonia – and a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose.
For more information about COVID-19, visit the following websites: