ROYAL OAK, MI — Beaumont Health launched a free online COVID-19 risk assessment tool on Wednesday, which allows patients to answer a series of questions about their symptoms and help them determine whether to stay home or seek medical attention.

The free tool can be accessed at www.beaumont.org/coronavirus.

After answering a series of questions, the tool will suggest what action a patient should take, such as contacting a primary care physician, going to a curbside screening, seeking treatment at an emergency center or staying at home and monitoring symptoms.

“Many people who become infected with COVID-19 can stay home and treat their symptoms with over the counter medication, unless their symptoms become severe,” said Dr. Nicholas Gilpin, Beaumont Health’s medical director of Infection Prevention and Epidemiology. “The primary symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath. This online risk assessment tool will help our patients better understand what steps they should consider taking if they are not feeling well.”

Patients are also being asked to consider calling Beaumont’s Coronavirus hotline, 800-592-4784, or their physician’s office before attempting to get screened. Those experiencing life-threatening symptoms are urged to call 911.

“Everyone does not necessarily need to be tested,” Gilpin said. “Most people who become infected with the disease will not experience complications and will recover. They will just need to go home, rest and take over-the-counter pain medication.”

In terms of helping to stop the spread of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, people are urged to stay home when they feel sick, especially if they experience fever, cough or upper respiratory infection symptoms. It is also recommended to wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a solution of at least 60 percent, especially after coughing or sneezing, and after using the bathroom. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Also, clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.