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COVID testing & Rapid testing near me in Lahaina, HI

COVID Test
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20 instant-book locations

2580 Kekaa Dr, Lahina, HI 967612580 Kekaa Dr
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.85(2.6k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Probably saved my life. Went to Minit thinking I had a lung infection. It was quickly diagnosed as a heart condition. The staff at Minit, Rachel (I think) were wonderful. Thank you. I am doing great today.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 967613350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
Open until 3:45 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 3:45 pm
  • SunClosed
4.86(391 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Doctors On Call, Telemedicine Visit - 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
My 1st experience with tele heath meeting. Went very well.
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

270 Dairy Rd, Kahului, HI 96732270 Dairy Rd
Open until 7:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.84(2.8k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Minit Medical, Virtual Visit - 270 Dairy Rd
Today Rachel assisted me. She was cordial, professional and easy to talk to. She answered my questions and I felt comfortable during my virtual session. Mahalo.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

270 Dairy Rd, Kahului, HI 96732270 Dairy Rd
Open until 7:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.78(2.6k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Minit Medical Urgent Care, Kahului - 270 Dairy Rd, Kahului
Well taken cared of....
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1325 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 967531325 S Kihei Rd
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.81(2.6k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Minit Medical Urgent Care, Kihei - 1325 S Kihei Rd, Kihei
I couldn’t have asked for better care while on vacation. Upon returning home my doctor here said the stitches I had were very well done. Since we travel to Kihei once a year we will always know where to go for emergency medical care. Mahalo always to Minit Medical.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 967613350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
Open until 4:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • SunClosed
4.56(314 reviews)
Doctors on Call, Honokowai Location - 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
Pam was wonderful! Saved my vacation. I o ly wish I had come sooner. Do not hesitate to get care.
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 967613350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
Open until 4:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • SunClosed
4.89(27 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Doctors On Call, DOC Wellbeing Infusion Centers  - 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd
We were there for travel testing. Technician was prompt, friendly, and efficient. Overall great experience.

AVAILABLE TIMES

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3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 967533750 Wailea Alanui Dr
Open until 4:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • SunClosed
4.45(469 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Doctors On Call , Urgent Care and Weight Loss Center - 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr
The system used to book an appointment was seamless. The staff was efficient, kind, and thoughtful. I was pleased with the service provided and the people. Thank you!
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

845 Waine'e St, Lahaina, HI 96761845 Waine'e St
Open until 3:30 pm
  • Mon 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • Tue 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • Wed 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • Thu 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • Fri 6:30 am - 3:30 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
Visit Clinic

342 Keawe St, Lahaina, HI 96761342 Keawe St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic

1221 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 967611221 HI-30
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sat10:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Longs Drugs - 1221 HI-30
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Visit Clinic

130 Prison St, Lahaina, HI 96761130 Prison St
Open until12:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SunClosed
Visit Clinic

15 Ipu Aumakua Ln, Lahaina, HI 9676115 Ipu Aumakua Ln
View hours of operation
  • Mon 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • TueClosed
  • Wed 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • ThuClosed
  • FriClosed
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
Visit Clinic

1840 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 967611840 HI-30
View hours of operation
  • MonClosed
  • TueClosed
  • WedClosed
  • ThuClosed
  • FriClosed
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Minit Medical, Lahaina/West Maui Testing Center - 1840 HI-30
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min
Visit Clinic

200 Nohea Kai Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761200 Nohea Kai Dr
Open until 9:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
4.0(38 reviews)
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3450 Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 967933450 Kahekili Hwy
View hours of operation
  • MonClosed
  • TueClosed
  • WedClosed
  • ThuClosed
  • FriClosed
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Minit Medical,  Camp Maluhia - 3450 Kahekili Hwy
Booking online was really easy and the staff at Minit Medical were very friendly. Wait time was very quick never waited long at all. I would definitely recommend Minit Medical to anyone seeking outstanding service and medical care.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown
Visit Clinic

2180 Main St, Wailuku, HI 967932180 Main St
Open until 7:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Visit Clinic

2180 Main St, Wailuku, HI 967932180 Main St
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 6:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 6:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 6:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 6:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 6:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sat 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
  • SunClosed
Visit Clinic

135 Kehalani Village Dr, Wailuku, HI 96793135 Kehalani Village Dr
Open until 7:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Longs Drugs - 135 Kehalani Village Dr
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Visit Clinic

700 Waiale Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793700 Waiale Rd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic
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COVID-19 Testing FAQs

  • How much does COVID testing cost in Lahaina?

    In many cases, COVID testing can be free. Many state and local health departments continue to offer free testing to community residents as part of their response to the pandemic. In other cases, commercially insured patients, or those on Medicare or Medicaid, may receive testing at no out of pocket cost, or with a nominal office visit copay. For cash paying patients, or those that need rapid COVID testing which will deliver results in under an hour, COVID tests can range from $50 to $150 each. It is best to call your healthcare provider prior to getting tested to better understand the cost of the specific test you require.

  • Where can I get free COVID testing in Lahaina?

    COVID testing is available for free under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which includes testing for those without health insurance. Check with your Lahaina-area health department as they are generally a good source for free COVID tests, or can at least point you in the right direction. Additionally, you can ask your primary care provider to recommend a free COVID test site.

  • Where can I get COVID testing in Lahaina?

    COVID testing is available at many outlets near Lahaina including urgent care centers, retail clinics, primary care offices, health departments, and more. Different venues will have different types of tests available, many at different price points. Some testing sites are allowing walk-in patients, however, many are still requiring some degree of advance booking to control patient volume.

  • Where can I get a rapid COVID test in Lahaina?

    Rapid testing—both PCR (molecular) and antigen tests—is offered through many Lahaina-area urgent care centers and physician offices, usually at an additional cost ranging from $50 up to $150 per test. Usually this will allow you to get results back in under an hour, and require advanced booking through the provider. However, if you can wait 24 hours for your results, many labs are turning around send-out lab tests in that time frame, which could save you some money.

  • How to make an appointment for COVID testing in Lahaina?

    Same-day and next day appointments for COVID testing in Lahaina are bookable directly through Solv. Simply browse the list of healthcare providers conducting COVID tests above, find one with a “Book Online” button, and book a time that aligns with your schedule stating “COVID-19 Test” as your reason for visit.

  • Can I get tested for antibodies if I am sick with COVID-19 Lahaina?

    An antibody test for COVID-19 might inform you if you previously had a coronavirus infection. Because it can take between 1–3 weeks after an infection for your body to develop these antibodies, an antibody test during an active infection would not be successful. To see if you are currently infected, you need a viral test.

  • Do I need a COVID test if I have been vaccinated?

    Even if you have been fully vaccinated, if you have been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, experts believe that you should be tested yourself, particularly if you are experiencing cold and flu symptoms commonly aligned with the coronavirus.

  • How long does COVID testing take?

    Getting a COVID test is quick. Most tests are done with a nasal swab, which takes less than a minute to swab both nostrils. Depending on where you get your COVID test, this means you could be in and out of the testing site in as little as 10-15 minutes. During busy times—particularly around holidays—testing sites may be busier than usual and wait times may be longer.

  • How long does it take to get COVID test results in Lahaina?

    Most labs are returning send-out molecular (PCR) COVID test results within 24-48 hours of the test. Some sites take longer, so call and ask if the reason for the test is proof for travel. Rapid COVID tests are processed on-site and are able to deliver results in under an hour, sometimes in as little as 15 min.

  • Do COVID tests detect the Delta variant and Omicron variant?

    Regular COVID tests are able to detect both the Delta variant and Omicron variant in that they can determine whether or not you have the coronavirus. However, they can't tell which variation is involved. That would necessitate genomic sequencing, which is a different process from regular virus testing that not all labs can undertake. Sequencing is uncommon and can cost up to $100 per test. Since the treatment is the same for any variant, it is not clinically useful to an individual patient to know whether the infection was caused by a variant or not.

Recent COVID-19 Testing Reviews (20)

Dr Azman and his staff were all great in relation to getting COVID tested for travel.

- Verified patient on 3/1

Having to get a Covid test to reenter Canada is a stressful experience, but doctors on call made it so much easier. They were on time and gave quick results. Booking the appt online was very convenient. The cost was more than some other clinics, but getting the results within 15 min rather than 24 hours made it worthwhile. Thank you

- Verified patient on 11/25

Very professional, even with a rapid COVID test. New patient got me in and out in an hour, even with the new patient paperwork and the COVID test. Assuming the cost of the COVID test was covered by insurance as my co-pay was the usual. Here on vacation and the experience was as painless as it could have been.

- Verified patient on 7/17

Great , professional staff! Prompt care and quick results! Pricing was a little steep for PCR covid test. Would recommend to a friend tho as the results were fast and service was fast

- Verified patient on 1/2

Had to book a return home covid test, everything was mixed up, we were caught in your changeover to on line booking without knowing it was happening!! After it was all set in motion it was pretty smooth, but until then it was CHAOS . Your staff were doing their best, I appreciate that !

- Verified patient on 11/18

Went for a travel Covid test thinking it was the only option near where we were staying. Did not enter the clinic. Good treatment and service, just very expensive.

- Verified patient on 11/28

It was a stressful experience trying to get a travel Covid testNAAT, as rules had changed and an appointment was required. Not what they told us a week ago which was to just show up early in the morning. However the website was not up to date or clear on that. Fortunately we got the last appointment and got our tests completed. As a traveller these days it is stressful enough without any mixed instructions. Having said that we have used this clinic in years past and they have always been amazing. Courteous, kind and professional.

- Verified patient on 11/20

I had a rapid Covid test on 8/19/21, my birthday, at the site behind Ace hardware Kihei. I got a call back about 3 hours later from a young lady, believe her name was Kate. She informed that I tested positive and to quarantine myself for the next 10 days and if my symptoms got worse to call for further medical help. 10 minutes later she called back and apologized saying after reviewing my file further she saw that I might be eligible for a Special treatment for over 65ers and if i was interested she would set me up with a video appointment with a doctor to discuss further. I told her I would think about it. 20 minutes later I called her # back and of course it went to a message for MMUC and gave me a # to call to get help. I called the number and after getting to the third prompt I got a call from the original number and it was Kate(?) asking if I tried to call back to which said yes that I wanted to to talk to a doctor. While on the phone with her she set me up with video appointment 1 1/2 hrs later. My appointment was at 4:20 with Dr. Michael Jackowitz. He asked some questions, did some calculations, filled out a form and said he would send it over to the hospital put that I probably wouldn't hear back till sometime Friday after he talked to his contact at the hospital to which I thanked him. 2 hrs later Maui Memorial hospital called me back with an appointment for the next day to receive the Monoclonal antibody treatment which I did receive Friday 8/20/21. Beginning this morning I have been pain free and fever free and my other symptoms are diminishing. Because the young lady that called me to give me my results and then call back not once but twice then Dr. Jackowitz took the time from his busy day to fill out a form and apparently push it through an overloaded system, I received my best birthday present ever, better health and Hope and for those I will be forever grateful to both of these special people. Thank you Minut Medical for hiring people who care. God Bless you all, David Flemming

- Verified patient on 8/22

Had COVID test to travel all went super smooth. Staying up till midnight to book was a bit of a pain.

- Verified patient on 12/10

I made a 515 appointment to do a covid test for travel. I showed up early, was called at 510 to confirm I was there and employee came out to collect payment promptly. However, I had to call after 30 minutes of waiting and ask if someone was actually going to going to come out and administer the test. Then I waited another 10 minutes before someone came out. He did not give me his name or introduce himself. If it takes less then 2 minutes to administer the test, it shouldn’t take almost 40 minutes to ‘prep’ the test and I am left waiting. I understand clinics are busy. But hurry up and pay but wait to take the test was extremely irritating especially when I was the only person waiting for a test.

- Verified patient on 12/3

This is the best place in Maui to get a Covid test for travel. They have more time slots available, and are willing to check if there are appointment available at a given location. The tests are quick, easy and you results in 15minutes for the Abbott test. Better service than their main competition on the island, and more days available for testing.

- Verified patient on 11/26

Communication was really confusing throughout this process. Scheduling an appointment was very easy and convenient. Even just calling the center for information was very helpful because they gave clear instructions on how to book an appointment. After scheduling an appointment there was a portion for a “video”. I didn’t know this was a video call with a physician but just a “how to prepare for testing” video, so I had gone to the center thinking that. The physician on call was very informative but our calls kept cutting off. After getting scheduled for a Covid test I was waiting in my car to get tested for about 20 mins til I went inside to inquire. Before inquiring, no one told me I had to move my car to the testing slots or any information on what to do next. I had moved my car and waited. The test was done quickly and efficiently. My biggest concern was the communication and wait time. Since I was told to wait in my car for most of the visit it was difficult to contact the center. It would’ve been convenient if I received text messages or emails just so I understood what was happening and keep physical contact to a minimum.

- Verified patient on 10/1

Covid tests

- Verified patient on 11/19

The whole Covid testing experience was extremely efficient and courteous .

- Verified patient on 11/22

I used DOC for Covid testing. The staff was very friendly, efficient and professional.

- Verified patient on 12/7

There was 6 of us getting CoVid testing to get back to Canada. The staff were great with the all of us and expect with the children. I wish we could have booked our appointments when we got here 2 weeks ago but the CoVid testing site would only let you book 24 hours in advance. I got up at midnight to book our appointments go the Friday.

- Verified patient on 12/11

Only complaint was having only 2 days in advance to book our travel covid tests. Holiday Thanksgiving made for a very late night trying to book at the stroke of midnight!

- Verified patient on 11/28

My first experience with urgent care was not a good one. One of my kids had knee surgery on Friday, but his pain medicine was ineffective, so I went to urgent care and waited two hours to see the doctor only to find out that urgent care does not prescribe narcotics. I was very angry because I wasted two hours keeping my kid in pain. Subsequent visits were wonderful. It’s convenient to go to urgent care and Kapolei, so I don’t have to drive all the way into town for a sick note for work. I had to go for Covid testing and each time the star was efficient. I had to take one of my kids in for testing for Covid, and although we had to wait because it was crowded, it was a good visit. The wait is par with any other ER or doctors office. It’s difficult to keep a kid in pain, but I don’t blame urgent care for this. I’m sure every medical clinic, doctors office, ER, and urgent care has to deal with drug seekers. I am very thankful for urgent care, and I respect the people who work there there

- Verified patient on 4/16

We were there for a travel COVID test. The staff at the clinic were awesome! Friendly and very accommodating. The problem I have is with your booking website. The site only shows one appointment every 1/2 hr so it looks as though it fills up quickly but the clinic staff say they book 150 tests a day. Very frustrating for travellers trying to book a test within the 72 hrs window when you only allow booking 48 hrs (2 days) ahead. The website shows totally booked but even the day of the test the staff said there were open spots available. Please fix your website.

- Verified patient on 12/13

I think it went well! I was able to find a facility to provide COVID-19 travel test as CVS and Kaiser were not able to. I registered online, and got my appointment time right away. Had to wait about 45 minutes as the computers went down and others ahead had to wait to be assisted. Moved car to backside, but was not able to sign for Covid testing stall as another big car was blocking both stalls. He later moved and I was able to see sign and waited for nurse. Test was administered, felt uncomfortable but she talked me thru it, easing my anxiety. Once it was done, I felt relieved. Thank you. Appreciate all that you do.

- Verified patient on 12/9

Lahaina COVID Testing & Rapid Testing

Types of COVID Tests

There are two types of coronavirus tests (COVID-19 tests) available, those that can test for a current infection (viral test) and those that can test for a past infection (antibody test).

Viral COVID testing can be done in a few different ways, the most common being nose swabs, but saliva tests are becoming more popular. Some tests are processed out on-site and can provide results in as little as 30 minutes. These are called rapid COVID tests. The majority of tests, on the other hand, are collected at the clinic on-site and then submitted to off-site labs for processing. Results can take up to 2-3 days to arrive. 

Antibody testing looks for a past infection and may not reveal if you have an active COVID-19 infection because antibodies can take up to three weeks to form in your body. The presence of COVID antibodies may help to prevent you from becoming infected with the same virus again; but, because the clinical understanding of COVID-19 is still developing, it's unclear how long that protection will continue.

Who should get tested for current infection

The CDC currently defines four instances where COVID testing is recommended:

  1. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea.
  2. If you have been in close contact with someone with confirmed COVID-19. Close contact is defined as within 6 feet for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. If you have been vaccinated, or tested positive in the past 3 months and not experiencing symptoms, you do not need to be tested.
  3. If you are unvaccinated and participated in high-risk activities where distancing is not an option. This could include travel, large social or mass gatherings, crowded indoor settings, etc.
  4. If you have been referred to get a COVID test by your healthcare provider or local health department. 

How is testing done for COVID-19?

Most COVID tests are collected by a nasal swab. A member of the medical team puts a swab inside your nose for a few seconds on each side to collect the sample. After that, the samples are packaged according to CDC guidelines and tested on-site or transported to a facility for testing. The lab will test samples for the presence of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes COVID infection and either your care provider or the lab will notify you with the results as soon as they are available.

PCR vs Antigen Testing

Viral COVID tests are available as molecular and antigen tests. The molecular test, also known as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, usually delivers results within a few days since most of these tests are sent to offsite labs for analysis. The average turnaround time for PCR test results is 48 hours, but in some instances may be significantly longer due to backlogs related to insufficient lab volume and capacity. Antigen tests are also known as rapid tests and have an average turnaround time of between 15 to 30 minutes.

Both PCR and rapid COVID tests can be used to test people exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, those who were close contacts to COVID-19, and those without COVID-19 symptoms who live or work in a high-risk setting (such as a nursing facility); or those individuals who are identified as part of outbreak detection and response. The rapid COVID test is also recommended for the screening of residents or healthcare workers at skilled nursing facilities along with a PCR confirmation, and for repeat screening for the early detection and prevention of outbreaks in congregate settings (such as schools, workplaces, and prisons).

COVID testing is available for free under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which includes testing for those without health insurance. To reduce the risk of facing extra costs related to COVID testing, ask your primary care doctor to recommend a free COVID test site, and confirm there are no charges or fees for the test that are not covered by your insurance plan. Additionally, avoid getting a COVID test at a hospital or free-standing emergency room, as these facilities may charge fees for COVID testing and related services.

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