By David Opinko

COVID-19 test results now available through text message

Sep 10, 2020 | 4:12 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Albertans can now choose how they want to receive their COVID-19 test results – through an automated phone call, a personal phone call from an AHS team member, or by SMS text message.

When you book a COVID test through the Alberta Health Services website or by dropping into an assessment centre, you can choose any one of these methods.

“Providing Albertans with both positive and negative COVID-19 test results through text message and automated phone calls will significantly reduce wait times for test results,” says Minister of Health Tyler Shandro. “We have heard Albertans’ concerns and responded.”

The current AHS autodialer system has delivered negative results to more than 500,000 Albertans since its launch in April.

“It is important that anyone who is tested for COVID-19 receive the results as soon as possible, particularly those with a positive result,” says Dr. Deena Hinshaw, the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health. “I encourage all Albertans who arrange for a COVID-19 test to allow the text or autodialer system to provide their results. That way, you will have the benefit of this critical information as soon as it is available.”

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Dr. Laura MacDougall, AHS Senior Medical Officer of Health says, with the faster delivery of results, those with COVID-19 can begin self-isolation sooner, thus reducing the risk of further transmission.

Those who choose to receive COVID test results via text message are advised that the texts can be sent at any time. Automated phone calls are made between 7:00 am and 11:00 pm seven days a week.