Who is eligible for COVID-19 testing at Thompson’s Urgent Care Centers?
Testing for COVID-19 is available as follows:
- For people with no symptoms and no known exposure to COVID-19, a rapid antigen test is available. In some instances, a person may elect to have a nasal swab PCR test if travel or attending a public event requires the PCR testing. If the antigen test is positive, the patient may request a confirmatory nasopharyngeal PCR, which carries additional cost.
- For people with no symptoms but who have had a known exposure to a COVID-19 patient, a nasopharyngeal swab PCR will be administered. The best time to check for the virus with a known exposure is on day 5 after the exposure. Testing too soon to the exposure may miss the viral infection.
- For those with symptoms of COVID-19, a nasopharyngeal swab PCR will be administered. Symptomatic patients need to quarantine until results are received.
- For the most up-to-date information on quarantine and isolation: CDC coronavirus web site.
What is a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and how does it differ from a PCR test?
The COVID-19 rapid antigen test indicates if a patient currently has the virus using a nasal swab. Patients will be asked to remain at urgent care for 15 minutes, at which time they will be notified of a negative or positive result.
The COVID-19 PCR test directly screens for the virus using a specimen collected via either a nasopharyngeal swab or a nasal swab. Results from these tests typically are received within 24 hours and will confirm with higher accuracy if a patient currently has the virus.
How long does it take to get results from a COVID-19 test?
The COVID-19 rapid antigen test offers results in 15 minutes while you wait at the center.
The COVID-19 PCR test result time varies based on the demand for testing but typically results are received within 24 hours. The quickest way to receive your test results are to sign up for
MyChart.
How much does a COVID-19 rapid antigen test cost?
Since the rapid test is not covered by insurance for asymptomatic, no-exposure patients, it is a self-pay service. The cost is $75 for the rapid antigen test. This is the full price for the antigen test visit. If, based on results or other symptoms, you require further testing, then additional costs may be incurred.
For either version of the PCR test, sometimes insurance can be billed. It is always best to check with your insurance carrier for your specific coverage.