Voluntary COVID-19 testing now available for university employees

Wichita State University is now offering optional on-campus COVID-19 testing to all university employees (faculty and staff) who have an on-campus presence. The university is pleased to offer this testing free of charge to our employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why is the university choosing to conduct voluntary testing?

Voluntary testing is part of the university’s multi-pronged strategy to monitor and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campus. Because COVID-19 infection is often asymptomatic, early identification of individuals with the virus requires testing to monitor – and respond to – any potential spread among the on-campus WSU community. This voluntary testing program allows the university to monitor and address real-time trends and burden of the disease to make timely decisions for intervention and response.

Do I need to be chosen to participate?

No. Most employees with an on-campus presence are eligible to participate in the employee voluntary testing program.

Are all employees eligible to participate?

No. Employees who are already subject to mandatory testing, or who are currently experiencing symptoms, are in isolation, or who have disclosed quarantined status are not be eligible to participate in the employee voluntary testing program.

Are eligible employees required to participate?

No, employees are not required to participate. Opting not to participate will not impact an employee’s status or relationship with WSU in any way.

Where is the testing being conducted?

All COVID-19 testing is administered through Student Health Services. Appointments are required and can be scheduled online through the myShockerHealth portal. Follow the portal link found at wichita.edu/shs. Login with your Shocker ID and select “Appointments” from the menu.

Test samples will be analyzed by the Wichita State University Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory. Results are typically available in 24 to 48 hours. You will be provided instructions on how to access your test results during sample collection.

Will employees have to pay for tests?

No. All testing for the employee voluntary testing program is being provided free of charge.

What if I test positive?

If you test positive, you should contact your personal healthcare provider immediately and self-isolate in your residence. You should also contact WSU Human Resources by phone or email. For more information on what to do if you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, have been exposed to COVID-19, are awaiting test results for COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with COVID-19, go to the HR COVID-19 Resources page.

Will my results automatically be reported to Human Resources?

No. If you test positive, you are responsible for contacting Human Resources by phone or email.

Will the test results from the voluntary testing program be reported on the university’s COVID-19 Dashboard?

No.

Can I participate more than once?

Yes, employees may participate more than once.