Apple starts registering COVID-19 testing locations
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Testing for COVID-19 is still a tough endeavor, as finding testing facilities can be difficult. You have to do extensive research or rely on dubious third-party apps to guide you to the nearest testing center. Apple will make things easier, however, with a new Apple Maps feature. The company has launched a dedicated web page that allows hospitals, labs, and healthcare centers to register as COVID-19 testing locations.
The process is pretty simple. A hospital that performs COVID-19 testing has to download and fill a template form, then email it to Apple. The latter will review the application and reach out to verify the details if necessary. The idea is for confirmed locations to be displayed on Apple Maps to help people find a nearby COVID-19 testing center.
Apart from contact information about testing facilities, Apple Maps will list other useful details like working hours, referral or appointment requirements, the specific kind of COVID-19 testing being performed, as well as the type of the facility – building, drive-through, lab, etc.
It will probably take some time before you start seeing those locations on your phone, however. Healthcare organizations have to apply and get verified, which takes time. Nevertheless, offering such integration within Apple Maps will give people a secure and easy way to find the nearest testing site if they feel their condition requires a test.
Last month, Apple released a free COVID-19 app that includes a self-testing tool from the CDC that tells you whether you need to see a doctor or get tested. When testing locations start to show on Apple Maps, it will be even easier for people to react if they feel sick or uneasy about the current COVID-19 situation.
Questions & Answers
Q.What information will Apple Maps display about registered COVID-19 testing locations?
What information will Apple Maps display about registered COVID-19 testing locations?
Apple Maps will list contact information, working hours, referral or appointment requirements, the specific kind of COVID-19 testing offered, and the type of facility, such as a building or drive-through.
Q.What process do healthcare organisations follow to register as a testing location?
What process do healthcare organisations follow to register as a testing location?
They must download and fill out a template form, then email it to Apple. Apple will review the application and verify details if needed before displaying the location on Maps.
Q.How long will it take for these testing locations to appear on Apple Maps?
How long will it take for these testing locations to appear on Apple Maps?
It will probably take some time for locations to appear. Healthcare organisations need to apply and go through a verification process, which takes time.
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