The mission of the Sewanee Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory is to provide molecular diagnostics laboratory services to support the University of the South and the surrounding community, while expanding educational opportunities to students and community members to ameliorate rural health disparities. We aim to increase services in the area of molecular diagnostics for rural hospitals and clinics in the community while providing accurate, reliable, and timely analysis of results.

Read more about who we are and where we came from here.

Disclosure:
SMDL is an LLC that is a wholly owned subsidiary of The University of the South.


Available Tests and Eligibility:

SMDL currently provides virology testing for the purpose of infectious disease diagnosis.  We use Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) to detect presence of certain infections, including SARS-CoV-2 for all known variants identified by the CDC.

How do I test if I am a student?

Please contact the University Wellness Center to schedule an appointment by calling 931-598-1270.

How soon will I get my results?

SMDL is open Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.  Same day turnaround is typical if the sample is submitted prior to noon; otherwise, turnaround is typically within 24 hours. Please be aware that turnaround time can be dependent on request volume and other mitigating factors. 

How will I get my results?

Results for diagnostic tests will be given to the ordering provider/office. You can also receive a direct copy of your results report from the lab.

Will results be reported to local public health departments?

The TN State Department of Health requires all laboratories to report specific test results.  SMDL abides by these regulations and submits mandatory results, including those for COVID-19.

Is there a cost associated with this test?

Yes, there are fees for processing diagnostics tests. To pay your bill, please refer to our Payment Portal page.

What are your diagnostic COVID tests like?

SMDL uses flocked swabs to collect specimens in a minimally invasive way from the anterior nares (nose).

What should I do while I’m waiting for my Covid-19 results or after I get my results?

Please check the University’s COVID-19 Information Page on the University’s current policy regarding masking, quarantine, and other requirements.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact our office at smdl@sewanee.edu.

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