UAMS Health Logo UAMS Health
COVID-19

Frequently Asked Questions about UAMS Drive-Thru COVID Testing

Last modified: November 12, 2020
You are here:

When is the drive-thru testing site open and where is it located? 

Go to the location page to find out the latest information about operational hours and to find directions to the testing site on the main UAMS campus in Little Rock.

Can I be tested if I don’t have symptoms? 

UAMS is currently focused on testing those who have symptoms of COVID-19 and/or known exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Can my children be tested at UAMS? 

No. UAMS is not testing anyone under 16. The only exception is children being admitted to the UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute. Children may be tested at Arkansas Children’s if they have symptoms or at the Arkansas Department of Health. 

Can I register as a patient before I get to the Drive-Thru site? 

Yes. Call 501-296-1531 to register as a patient for the drive-thru screening. If you are being tested in order to have surgery or a procedure at UAMS, tell the operator when you call. Watch for signs directing you to a special testing line during high-traffic hours. 

How long will the drive-thru testing take? 

This depends on how long the lines are. Weekends, Mondays and Tuesdays usually have longer lines, and testing can take several hours. When there is no line, it can take as little as 15 minutes. 

How long will it take to get my results? 

Results are usually available in one to three days, depending on the type of test. 

How do I get my test results? 

Your results will be available in your UAMS MyChart account as soon as they are available. If you do not have a MyChart account, we will send a letter with your results. 

What does testing involve? 

The test most commonly used to diagnose COVID-19 is a PCR test. It works by detecting genetic material from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. When someone is infected, they have this genetic material in their nose and upper throat. The test uses a sample collected with a swab from an area of the nasal passage where viral particles are likely to be present. 

Is testing free? 

At registration UAMS will collect your insurance information, if available. We will bill your insurance. If you do not have insurance, you can still be tested. 

Do you have interpreters for patients who do not speak English? 

Yes. Our written instructions are available in Spanish, and we have video interpreters available at all times for more than 500 different languages. 

Was this article helpful?
Dislike 10
Some of these documents have been developed based on current needs and experiences. UAMS is an entity of the state which may have different requirements under federal and state law than your hospital, doctors, and other providers. This information is provided as a public service in response to continuing questions from various community providers. All information is subject to change as our response to this pandemic challenge continues. Consult your practice or facility leadership before adopting any practices or protocols provided here.