COVID-19 Testing
Rapid Test
This test shows whether you are currently infected with the COVID-19 virus. Given with a nasal swab (results in 15-30 minutes).
Antibody Tests
Med Plus provides antibody testing. This test shows whether your body has developed antibodies to the COVID-19 virus. Collected with a blood sample (send-out test)
PCR Test
This test shows whether you are currently infected with the COVID-19 virus. Given with a nasal swab (send-out test).
How and When Will I Get My Results?
Rapid Test Results
Your results are typically ready in about 15-30 minutes.
PCR Test Results
Because of higher demand, PCR (nasal swab) lab results currently take an average of 1-3 days, though they may take longer depending on our lab partner and other factors.
Serum Antibody IgG (Blood Test) Results
Please allow 3-5 days for your results.
What Does Each Test Cost?
If you are coming in for asymptomatic COVID-19 testing for clearance, travel or work, we suggest checking with your insurance provider before your visit to confirm they will cover the cost of your Med Plus visit and testing. Med Plus will bill your insurance company, but some plans may deny COVID-19 related claims.
Please note that a provider evaluation is required for every patient who requests a COVID-19 test.
What Do These COVID-19 Tests Detect?
Rapid and PCR Tests
The Serum Antibody IgG (Blood Test)
This test shows whether you have had prior exposure to or infection with COVID-19 and have developed antibodies to the virus. With most viral illnesses, a positive antibody result means prior exposure and possible immunity to future infection. Because COVID-19 is a novel (new) infection, it is not yet clear whether a positive antibody result provides immunity. Med Plus recommends universal precautions (hand washing, social distancing and masks when appropriate).
COVID-19 Testing FAQ
COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, a new coronavirus. The WHO first identified this viral disease on December 31, 2019, after a report of a cluster of ‘viral pneumonia’ cases in Wuhan.
COVID-19 symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure. That gap between exposure and the start of symptoms is called the incubation period. You can still spread COVID-19 even when you have no signs of illness. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore Throat
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
Anyone with symptoms should be tested as soon as possible. If you have no symptoms but had direct contact with someone who is, or may be, infected, testing is also worth considering.
When you have symptoms, an antigen or PCR test is needed to find out whether you are currently positive for COVID-19. Antibody testing is not needed if you have symptoms. We usually start with an antigen test for a fast answer. If that antigen test is negative but we still suspect you are positive, we send a PCR test to our partner lab.
A viral test uses a sample from your nose or mouth to find out whether you carry the virus that causes COVID-19. Viral tests fall into two groups: rapid tests and laboratory tests.
- Rapid Tests- An antigen test can be run or read by someone other than the person being tested, and it takes only minutes. A rapid test that can be done at home is also available. These tests are easy to use and give results right away.
- Laboratory Tests- NAATs, including RT-PCR and other NAAT types, may take several days to complete.
Like vaccination, masking and physical distancing, COVID-19 testing is one of several steps that can lower the chance of the virus spreading and help protect you and those around you.
An antibody test can detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in your blood. These proteins, called antibodies, are made by your immune system to help fight infection and to keep you from getting sick in the future.
A blood test for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies can show whether antibodies are present. Your immune system produces them to help fight infection and prevent you from becoming ill again later.
Testing plays a key role in helping reduce the spread of COVID-19. Always review your test results with your healthcare professional.
COVID-19 tests can detect either SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the disease, or the antibodies your body makes after you contract the disease or receive a vaccine against it.
Yes! We enjoy helping travelers. Please check the specific requirements to see whether you need a PCR test or an antigen test. We perform antigen testing in-house, but a PCR test must be sent out.