August 20, 2020
Dear Students:
One of the critical components in ensuring the safety of our entire campus community is COVID-19 testing. The details in this communication are intended for our undergraduate and graduate students who typically attend classes on our Potsdam campus.
Please read this information carefully and ensure that you complete all the requirements as soon as possible.
Who needs to come to the SUNY Potsdam campus to get a COVID-19 test?
- Students who are planning to live on-campus during the Fall 2020 semester
- Students who plan to be on campus for any reason
- Students who are living off-campus within a 15-mile radius from campus
What about students in Watertown-based programs?
Undergraduate and graduate students who only take classes at our extension center at Jefferson Community College are also required to be tested for COVID-19. Watertown students should monitor your emails for specific testing protocols and next steps from Laura Carbone and the Graduate and Continuing Education team.
I’m returning to campus or living locally this semester. What do I need to do to schedule a testing appointment?
If you haven’t already, please complete the Safety Plan Survey available online. Residence Life will send you a link to schedule an appointment to return to campus for your testing appointment and/or to move in (for on-campus students).
I have my appointment, now what do I do?
Register TODAY and then submit your health insurance information to our testing provider, ENZO Labs, via their secure online portal.
What if I don’t want to be tested?
If you meet one of the above criteria for testing, it is the expectation for your return that you will be tested to ensure the safety of the entire campus community. If you do not want to be tested, you will not be authorized to be on campus for the Fall 2020 semester and should contact the Student Success Center to discuss your options for studying virtually.
How many tests do I need to do?
Students will be required to have a COVID-19 test upon arrival to campus. In addition, as we continue to monitor the public guidance, additional tests may be required. You will be notified in advance of additional testing requirements.
If at any time you have COVID-19 related symptoms or come into contact with an individual who has tested positive, Student Health Services will offer COVID-19 tests. To schedule an appointment, please call (315)267-2377.
What is the cost of the COVID-19 test?
Your health insurance plan should cover the cost of the test. If for some reason your plan does not cover the cost or you are not insured, you will not be charged.
When will my results be available?
Test results will be available approximately four days after the test is administered. You will be notified directly of your test results.
What do I do after my test?
You are required to self-quarantine until you receive your test results. More details on the self-quarantine restrictions are available online. If your test comes back negative, you will be able to resume activities, following all the expectations outlined in the BEAR COVID-19 Pledge. If you test positive, we will be in touch with you to discuss moving into isolation.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation through this process, as it is a critical component to ensuring your safety.
Together, we will stop the spread.
Sincerely,
Tracy Harcourt, FNP-C
Director of Student Health Services
Pronouns: she, her, hers