Photos show one of the first drive-through coronavirus testing stations in the US, where people with a doctor's note get tested for free

Patients qualify for free coronavirus testing if they've shown symptoms, if they've recently traveled to high-risk areas, or if they've been in close contact with someone who tested positive, according to a state health department spokesperson.

Symptoms of the coronavirus could include a fever, fatigue and dry cough, and sometimes muscle pain or difficulty breathing.

Patients are required to obtain a doctor's note for the free test, and are directed to get that note via email or fax to avoid putting others at risk by visiting a doctor's office or clinic in person. They should also bring a photo ID that matches the name on the doctor's note.

How quickly patients can expect their test results depends on the number of people tested, according to a state official, but patients should be contacted directly with their results within 72 hours.

During that time, patients should wait at home and isolate themselves from other people and public spaces.

If a patient tests positive, an isolation order may be issued, according to the health department.

The first day of the drive-through testing station saw 160 patients, according to a state health official, and more are expected on Thursday and Friday.

So far, 6 people have tested positive for coronavirus in the Denver area, according to the most recent data. 33 people total have tested positive for the virus statewide as of Thursday.

Elsewhere in the country, people who suspect they may have coronavirus have reported logistical and financial challenges with getting tested.

Some patients have reported waiting for days after applying for tests, uncertain if it's safe for themselves or their families to leave the house.

As of March 8, the US had the lowest rate of coronavirus testing of any developed country, and some areas are reporting a shortage of materials and kits needs to perform the tests, Business Insider previously reported.

Drive-through testing was first established in the US in Seattle, Washington earlier this week. Other sites have since popped up across the country, including in Connecticut and California.

Globally, drive-through testing sites have been in use to screen for the virus, including in South Korea, the UK, and Germany.

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