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COVID testing & Rapid testing near me in Somersworth, NH

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20 instant-book locations

4 Dana Dr, Berwick, ME 039014 Dana Dr
Open until 4:30 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.92(848 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

York Hospital, Berwick Walk-In Care - 4 Dana Dr
Krista PA was amazing. She was kind and caring. We will definitely return when needed.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1474 Main St, Sanford, ME 040731474 Main St
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 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 - 6:00 pm
4.88(2.1k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

York Hospital, Sanford Walk-In Care - 1474 Main St
Said theyvhad called in a script to Hannafords Drove up. Nothing here
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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343 US-1, York, ME 03909343 US-1
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 - 6:00 pm
4.87(3k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

York Hospital, York Walk-In Care - 343 US-1
Very pleased , I am happy to have York Hospital in my life!
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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35 Walker St, Kittery, ME 0390435 Walker St
Open until 4:30 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.87(884 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

York Hospital, Kittery Walk-In Care - 35 Walker St
I came in with a head laceration that was bleeding and painful. The nurse practitioner who tended me quickly assessed the wound and recommended a newer procedure to close it. She was careful and professional, and was very clear with information and instructions. I felt well taken care of, and was glad I'd come in to have the injury checked out.
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1 Loving Kindness Way, York, ME 039091 Loving Kindness Way
View hours of operation
  • Mon11:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue11:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Wed11:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Thu11:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Fri11:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
  • Mar 29Closed
  • Apr 16Closed
  • Apr 17Closed
  • Apr 19Closed
  • Apr 24Closed
4.83(190 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

York Hospital, Virtual Visits  - 1 Loving Kindness Way
A virtual walk-in appointment was a welcomed alternative until I can get my mother into see her primary care physician. The virtual provider was wonderful in both bedside manner and suggestions.

AVAILABLE TIMES

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62 Portland Rd, Kennebunk, ME 0404362 Portland Rd
Open until10:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Sat 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
  • Sun 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
HelixVM, Maine Virtual - 62 Portland Rd
PCR Test
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown
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311 NH-108, Somersworth, NH 03878311 NH-108
Open12:00 pm
  • Mon 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.34(516 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 311 NH-108
Excellent customer service. Knowledgeably answered all questions. Appointment and billing were fast. Testing next day was on time and professional. Results available within 24 hours. Highly recommend.
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Solv ClearPrice™
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No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

5 Clark Way, Somersworth, NH 038785 Clark Way
Open12:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.21(514 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 5 Clark Way
After receiving my results, I called Quest Lab Testing and discussed the results with a consultation. This consultation filled in my knowledge gaps and made me more aware of my particular situation.
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Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

200 Griffin Rd, Portsmouth, NH 03801200 Griffin Rd
Open 3:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.3(471 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 200 Griffin Rd
I was able to choose a Quest lab location and schedule an appointment. Check in was easy, and I only needed to provide my name and DOB. They were able to locate my order in their system. They were already aware that my labs were paid for prior to the appointment. I had my labs done on a Wednesday, and I received my results by Saturday. Great experience.
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Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

2935 Storey Ave, Newburyport, MA 019502935 Storey Ave
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 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Call now

58 Island Pond Rd, Atkinson, NH 0381158 Island Pond Rd
Open12:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.55(518 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 58 Island Pond Rd
I thought it was extremely easy to book a lab test appointment with Quest. Getting the test done was simple and so was the getting the results! Great job putting together something so user friendly.
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

10 Ferry St, Concord, NH 0330110 Ferry St
Open12:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.17(444 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 10 Ferry St
I highly recommend for anyone thinking of getting tested. From start to finish the whole process was hassle free and and very professional. I had my results very quickly and discreetly couldn't be happier with the service.
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

14 Tsienneto Rd, Derry, NH 0303814 Tsienneto Rd
Open 4:00 pm
  • Mon 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Tue 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wed 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thu 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Fri 6:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.23(540 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 14 Tsienneto Rd
Excellent customer service. Knowledgeably answered all questions. Appointment and billing were fast. Testing next day was on time and professional. Results available within 24 hours. Highly recommend.
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

6 Tsienneto Rd, Derry, NH 030386 Tsienneto Rd
Open 5:30 pm
  • Mon 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 6:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Sat 6:30 am - 3:00 pm
  • SunClosed
4.22(454 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 6 Tsienneto Rd
Great discreet service, scheduled my visit and paid for for the test online not in Showed up at lab, checked in and was seen within minutes. Blood and urine were collected, test results came back quickly within 2 days because I did my test on a Friday. Quick, easy and cheap. Didn't have to wait for a visit to my PCP, and then get referral to lab.
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

14 Country Club Rd, Gilford, NH 0324914 Country Club Rd
Open12:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.16(445 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 14 Country Club Rd
A great experience for something I had a lot of anxiety about. Had no wait time or issues at the testing center/lab. Had blood drawn at 3pm and had results by email at 9am the next morning.
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

COVID-19 Antibody Test
$119
Book now

AVAILABLE TIMES

Book online

338 High St, Somersworth, NH 03878338 High St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 8:00 am
  • Fri 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
CVS Pharmacy - 338 High St
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Visit Clinic

341 High St, Somersworth, NH 03878341 High St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon10:00 am - 6:00 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
  • Sun 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Visit Clinic

396 High St, Somersworth, NH 03878396 High St
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
1.0(0 reviews)
Visit Clinic

311 NH-108, Somersworth, NH 03878311 NH-108
Labcorp - 311 NH-108
Bill Icon

Self-pay pricing

Solv ClearPrice™
Clear self-pay prices

No more surprise bills. Solv is committed to making getting healthcare as easy as buying groceries at the store, including knowing the price of care upfront.

PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
$119
Visit Clinic

59 Waltons Way, Somersworth, NH 0387859 Waltons Way
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 - 7:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic
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Book a COVID test online

COVID-19 Antibody Test
This test detects SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) antibodies from a previous infection and from the COVID-19 vaccinations.

COVID-19 Testing FAQs

  • How much does COVID testing cost in Somersworth?

    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 Somersworth?

    COVID testing is available for free under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which includes testing for those without health insurance. Check with your Somersworth-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 Somersworth?

    COVID testing is available at many outlets near Somersworth 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 Somersworth?

    Rapid testing—both PCR (molecular) and antigen tests—is offered through many Somersworth-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 Somersworth?

    Same-day and next day appointments for COVID testing in Somersworth 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 Somersworth?

    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 Somersworth?

    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)

After 2 other Covid tests in 3 days (never received results) I went here and had my results in 25 minutes! Quick and efficient! Now I can apply for a travel visa and fingers crossed , be in the Bahamas tomorrow at this time! Thank you.

- Verified patient on 10/31

Very efficient for Travel Covid Testing. Staff very friendly and took time for questions and concerns from making the appointment to the test administration. This is an organized operation.

- Verified patient on 10/27

This is my go to place for Covid testing for travel. I have recommended them in the past to others. Great place

- Verified patient on 10/30

We were in desperate need of a COVID test to visit our son overseas and under a critical deadline the staff was pleasant and very accommodating and helped us to make the trip a reality

- Verified patient on 8/19

After multiple failed attempts to get a timely covid test from other providers I was so glad to find a facility that could take me for a *same-day* appointment especially after CVS cancelled my morning appointment due to an inability to resolve insurance conflicts in-store. The staff were SO friendly, on the phone and in person, and to be able to have my results later the same day is a real relief.

- Verified patient on 9/12

They really helped us out in a pinch, after getting the wrong Covid test elsewhere, we called and they got us in and saved our vacation! We are very grateful for their knowledge of the travel protocols during the pandemic.

- Verified patient on 10/15

Such an amazing experience for covid testing. The team was efficient, kind and patient. They explained the results and reprinted with my passport information to ensure I don't have trouble entering Malaysia. Highly recommend.

- Verified patient on 8/6

There was no line, and the staff was very helpful. I would recommend going here for anyone needing a Covid test.

- Verified patient on 11/13

Quick - no wait-much info during Covid testing protocol and given additional pages of info and numbers to call if question. Very professional!

- Verified patient on 9/30

This was a great experience from beginning to end. It was easy to book an appointment on the same day. The process was seamless, staff was very compassionate and I received my results before I drove back to my office (under an hour). I would recommend this service to anyone who needs a quick solution for COVID testing. The cost was fair and exactly what I expected. There was no waiting time.

- Verified patient on 9/22

Highly recommend- peace of mind for travellers. With a requirement of a negative COVID test result to return to Canada taken within 72 hours and being tested at another company who failed to return my family’s results in time, we found On-Site medical online with a rapid PCR Test. The staff was friendly and results were delivered on time. It was a little tricky to find as it is a trailer set up in the mall parking lot, but other than that it was so easy!

- Verified patient on 8/9

We were very nervous about the super-specific requirements on the paperwork for entering Japan, but they seem to know exactly what is required and prepared the paperwork perfectly! Now we're very relieved. The staff was all friendly both in person or on the phone, and the results came back fast (about one hour). Highly recommended for anyone who needs COVID tests for traveling!

- Verified patient on 8/9

Went for a PCR Covid test for travel to Canada...needed a guarantee that I would have results in time...they were able to email/ text me my results in under a hour. Peace of mind Booked online

- Verified patient on 10/27

We came early for our COVID test and apologized for coming early. There was no one behind us so they were more than happy to take my husband & I early! They were very professional......very efficient! The nurse explained the various tests, which we appreciated! She was wonderfully courteous & personable! It was a perfect experience! Thank you very much! Dr. Donald & Catherine Spruck

- Verified patient on 12/23

I called ClearChoiceMD on December 30th and spoke to Maria at the Portsmouth office I had two questions: one was for a rapid antigen Covid test for a trip and the other was a physical for my Master Captain Coast Guard license renewal. Maria was so kind and patient and worked hard to find the doctor that does the physicals at another branch in Maine and to make sure I had the needed covid test for my trip on January 4th to the Bahamas What a great asset she is to everyone that calls needing help and ClearChoiceMD

- Verified patient on 12/30

They came to my rescue when I needed a rapid covid test to return to work when others stopped doing it.

- Verified patient on 7/11

Quick and easy. Well worth the money to get quick results. We got an inconclusive covid test somewhere else and we’re leaving on vacation and needed results. Did a PCR here, results in less than an hour and I’ll still make my flight.

- Verified patient on 4/17

Fantastic COVID testing experience. Lots of appointments and very fast turnaround. Loved not even having to get out of the car. Appreciated the vaccination discount.

- Verified patient on 10/17

Went to drive thru for travel Covid test. Did the rapid pcr test. Staff was very friendly and test was not painful. Just 10 swirls in each nostril. Had results in 40 minutes. Expensive, but it gave me peace of mind and not worrying if I would get my test results within the 72 hour mandate for Aruba travel. Very relieved!

- Verified patient on 10/3

Quick easy covid test, got result before we got home not cheap but better to be sure you have your results and can fly!

- Verified patient on 9/6

Somersworth 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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