About Our COVID-19 Testing

Two types of tests are available for COVID-19: 

ANTIBODY TEST

This test is performed by taking a small amount of blood. Results are available quickly.

Antibody tests detect if you have previously been exposed to the COVID-19 virus and your body has already developed antibodies to fight the infection.

Quick Facts:

  • Rapid results – often in less than 15 minutes
  • The results are reliable (sensitivities and specificities above 90%)
  • A positive result means your body has already been exposed to the virus and developed antibodies
  • A negative result means your body has not developed antibodies to fight the infection
  • This test cannot tell you if you currently have an active infection
 

VIRAL PCR TEST

This test is performed by placing a cotton swab into the nose. Results are performed in our state-of-art laboratory.
 
This test involves obtaining an upper respiratory specimen.
 
This PCR test is more accurate than “rapid antigen” testing. Our PCR test is the gold standard to detect the presence of COVID-19. The sensitivity of antigen (rapid) testing ranges between 50-90%. This means up to 50% with the virus can test negative. Therefore, a negative antigen test result does not rule out the virus. If infection is still suspected, these patients must be tested by PCR as cited in the FDA press release and antigen testing product inserts cited below.
 
Quick Facts:

Results take approximately 24 hours.

  • The tests are not as specific as the antibody test (a negative test does not tell you for sure that you do not have the virus)
  • The test is highly sensitive (a positive result is very reliable that you have the virus)

References:

COVID-19 Risk Screening

If you would like to get tested for COVID-19, complete our quick screener based on public health guildelines. Based on the responses you will learn whether you qualify for testing through this program. 

Important: If you are experiencing severe symptoms, please visit the ER immediately.