Link-age and Orig3n Offer COVID-19 Testing

04 Jun Link-age and Orig3n Offer COVID-19 Testing

For Immediate Release:
May 29, 2020

Media Contact:
Patrick Schwartz
330.933.9825

Link·age and Orig3n Offer COVID-19 Testing

FDA-approved breakthrough testing provides results online in 24-36 hours

MASON, Ohio – As post-acute care providers across the country continue to deal with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Link·age has partnered with Boston-based biotech company Orig3n, LLC to begin offering a testing solution for residents and staff of any organization. Testing capacity has been a challenge in many states across the country as demand in post-acute care has quickly risen to the forefront.

“We have worked with senior living thought leaders to ensure that this is a comprehensive solution based on real needs facing providers today,” stated Annette Hutchins, Dir. Strategic Accounts at Link·age. “Orig3n has collaborated with our team to develop a process for CMS and supplemental insurance billing, and a best-practice strategy for testing large groups. Their ability to deliver results in a timely manner allows organizations to respond rapidly to avoid additional risk.”

Orig3n developed breakthrough (RT-PCT) testing that performs qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in individuals with a suspected COVID-19 infection. The testing method received U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) authorization on April 10, 2020 under an FDA Emergency Use Authorization.

“We are excited about our relationship with Link·age and serving the needs of communities under extreme pressure,” stated Kate Blanchard, Chief Operating Officer at Orig3n.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released COVID-19 testing guidance which recommends “a single baseline COVID-19 test, with re-testing of all staff continuing every week.” CMS also recommends testing of all residents, and “weekly re-testing of all nursing home residents until all residents test negative.”

The CMS guidance does not include the funding and resources needed to meet the recommendations, and many providers have experienced increased pressures as a result. Link·age partnered with Orig3n to help streamline the process, eliminate uncertainty, and improve efficiencies within the testing process for providers.

Orig3n’s CLIA certified lab delivers results online within 24 to 36 hours after arrival. The lab boasts high output capabilities and will offer CMS billing where appropriate. Link·age worked with Orig3n to bring these tests to members at a reduced cost.

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Link-age is a Mason, Ohio-based company with membership comprised of more than 450 senior living communities located across the United States. Link-age’s three interconnected companies – Solutions, Connect, and Ventures – work together to develop and deliver services that help senior living organizations focus on being successful in their commitment to their residents, employees, stakeholders, and communities.

For more information, visit www.linkageconnect.com.