We have compiled and synthesized key Test and Trace data for each state so that it can be objectively measured whether each state is prepared to be successful with a test and trace program today.

The grading scale is based upon the knowledge that:

1. Countries with successful test and trace programs have less than 3% positive tests (meaning that they have enough testing capabilities to test aggressively)

2. Test results must be ready in less than two days to effectively contact trace

3. A state needs ~5-15 contact tracers per daily positive test (contact tracers interview infected patients about who they’ve had close contact with, and then call those people to help them get tested and quarantined).

Overall Grading Scale: Conducted on a 6 point scale with a 6/6 meaning that a state meets the necessary testing availability and tracing team size benchmarks to successfully test and trace.

Testing Grades:

3 points for under 3% positive tests

2 point for 3-5.5% positive tests

1 point for 5.5-8% positive tests

0 points if over 8% positive tests

Score is divided in half if the State’s test turnaround time is not consistently within two days. And per the HHS, 0/50 States are averaging turnaround times within two days.

Tracing Grades:

3 points for 5-15+ tracers per daily positive case

2 points for 2.5-5 tracers per daily positive case

1 point for 1-2.5 tracers per daily positive case

0 points for under 1 tracer per daily positive case