7 COVID-related deaths in County, hospital announces same-day testing

Seven people have now died from complications of the coronavirus in La Paz County. La Paz Regional Hospital has announced COVID-19 tests that will give same-day results.

The 6th death was reported June 29th by the Colorado River Indian Tribes, the second tribal member to die in connection with the virus. The 7th death was from the Parker service district, reported yesterday by the La Paz County Health Department. The individual was over the age of 65 years old and hospitalized outside the county. It is not known whether the persons had any underlying health conditions.

Until now, testing for COVID-19 has taken several days to come back. But now, a new ‘rapid test’ being offered by La Paz Regional Hospital will normally give results on the same day the test is taken.

“The rapid, point-of-care diagnostic test uses a sample from your nose or throat and you get your results the same day,” said Kevin Brown, CEO. “No doctor’s order needed, and most insurances cover the test. Uninsured cash price is $70.”

The results are available the same day via a confidential patient portal on the hospital’s website.

“At La Paz Regional Hospital, challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic reinforce our commitment to caring,” Brown said.

The tests will be offered at the hospital main lab, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.