We offer three different types of COVID-19 tests at our free-standing emergency care clinic. Depending on your circumstances, we may recommend one or more of the following:
Antigen Test – We will swab your nose to detect the presence of a viral protein consistent with an active infection. If it is present, you have the virus. However, this test is only 93.8% sensitive, meaning it could return a false negative. If you have a negative test but are exhibiting typical COVID-19 symptoms, we may order another style of test. Results are typically available within 15 minutes.
Molecular (PCR) Test – Our staff will also administer this test using a nasal swab. We will then send the swab to an off-site diagnostic lab for more accurate results. Turnaround time is usually about 48 hours.
Antibody Test – This test requires us to draw your blood. We will then analyze it in search of disease-specific proteins that your body creates to fight infection and prevent a recurrence. This will not detect an active infection, but it can confirm you previously had the disease. Results are ready in 20 minutes.