Gunnison Valley Health Launches Direct Access Testing Program

Gunnison Valley Health recently announced the launch of a Direct Access Testing program designed to provide the community with low-cost lab testing year-round. The program is designed to offer similar cash pay pricing as the annual blood draw events hosted by the health system but will include a larger number of testing options.

Gunnison Valley Health CEO, Jason Amrich, said the new program will offer convenient access to necessary common lab tests.

“We see close to 2,000 people at our annual blood draw events and have heard consistent feedback from the community that access to low-cost lab testing is incredibly important to their health and well-being,” Amrich said. “We wanted to find a way to bring critical testing to the community at a cost that is similar to what is offered at the annual events, the Direct Access Testing program was the perfect solution.”

Direct Access Testing is laboratory testing in which individuals have the option to choose and order selected tests without a clinical provider’s order. Direct Access Testing is an important resource for people but shouldn’t be considered a substitution for treatment by a medical provider. People who take advantage of the service should discuss test results with their primary care provider.

Gunnison Valley Health Laboratory Director, Tina Wilson, stated that the addition of the program is one more resource the health system can offer to support patients and providers in the Gunnison Valley.

“I am thrilled that my lab team is able to offer Direct Access Testing as well as the comprehensive scope of laboratory tests offered at Gunnison Valley Health,” Wilson said. “I believe that Direct Access Testing is a great resource for our community and local primary care providers and will make affordable laboratory testing accessible for everyone in the valley.”

The Direct Access Testing program at Gunnison Valley Health will be available starting June 19, 2023. Payment for testing is due at the time of service and insurance will not be billed. To learn more about Direct Access Testing and the available testing options, visit www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/DAT.