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COVID testing & Rapid testing near me in Waco, TX

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20 instant-book locations

10207 China Spring Rd, Waco, TX 7670810207 China Spring 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
  • Sat10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
4.9(105 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Integrity Urgent Care, China Spring - 10207 China Spring Rd
I had to go in because of an allergic reaction to ivy growing in my yard. I was applying all the over the counter medicine, baths and ointment but was getting in my eyes and continuing to spread. The lobby is impeccably clean, everyone was super friendly and professional. Though it was a little bit of a drive for me, I’m so glad I chose the location. Dr Mark and Meagan were so caring and understanding, my soul started to feel a healing before I even left their facility. Thank you guys so much!
PCR Test
Results in 1-5 days
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1135 N Loop Dr, Waco, TX 767051135 N Loop Dr
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 - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.74(3.9k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

NextCare Urgent Care, Waco (Lacy Lakeview) - a BSWHealth partner - 1135 N Loop Dr, Waco
Everyone was amazing from the first call until we left!  Amazing team!!!
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1201 Hewitt Dr, Waco, TX 767121201 Hewitt Dr
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 - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
4.73(3.7k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

NextCare Urgent Care, Waco (Hewitt) - a BSWHealth partner - 1201 Hewitt Dr, Waco
Super professional and taken care of in a timely manner
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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3614 SW H K Dodgen Loop, Temple, TX 765043614 SW H K Dodgen Loop
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 - 5:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
4.7(347 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

AFC Urgent Care, Temple - 3614 SW H K Dodgen Loop, Temple
Quick and efficient. Diagnosed son with ear infection. Sent script. In and out fast which is a life saver with a upset sick toddler
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PCR Test
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour
$200
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min
$100
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7125 Sanger Ave, Waco, TX 767127125 Sanger Ave
Open 5:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.53(448 reviews)
Quest Diagnostics - 7125 Sanger Ave
I was very surprised with my experience here. My appointment was made very quickly. I was seen in a very short period of time. My test results came back in a very timely manner. I was able to speak with a doctor soon after and was taking care of. I was very satisfied with the experience I had here. I definitely recommend using them for any issues you have or any questions you may have.
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

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10207 China Spring Rd, Waco, TX 7670810207 China Spring 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
  • Sat10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Integrity Urgent Care, China Spring - Occupational Health - 10207 China Spring Rd
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820 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76706820 S 5th 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 am
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
CVS Pharmacy - 820 S 5th St
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221 N Jack Kultgen Expy, Waco, TX 76704221 N Jack Kultgen Expy
Open until 9:00 pm
  • Mon 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Tue 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wed 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thu 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Fri 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sat 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sun 7:00 am - 9:00 pm
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221 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd, Waco, TX 76706221 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd
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1520 S Valley Mills Dr, Beverly Hills, TX 767111520 S Valley Mills Dr
Open until 9:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
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4205 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 767104205 Franklin Ave
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
1.33(9 reviews)
Concentra Urgent Care, Waco - 4205 Franklin Ave, Waco
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505 N Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76710505 N Valley Mills Dr
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2524 La Salle Ave, Waco, TX 767062524 La Salle Ave
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Visit Clinic

4100 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 767104100 Bosque Blvd
Open until 9:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic

4320 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 767104320 Franklin Ave
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 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic

211 N Industrial Dr, Waco, TX 76710211 N Industrial Dr
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5401 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 767105401 Bosque Blvd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon10:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Visit Clinic

5174 W Waco Dr, Waco, TX 767105174 W Waco Dr
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • SunClosed
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2304 Marketplace Dr, Waco, TX 767112304 Marketplace Dr
Open until 7:30 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Sun10:00 am - 5:30 pm
Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Marketplace Clinic - 2304 Marketplace Dr
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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 Waco?

    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 Waco?

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

    COVID testing is available at many outlets near Waco 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 Waco?

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

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

    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 Waco?

    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)

This is my second visit to PrimaCare for Covid testing. The first visit was wonderful and it was a smooth process. The second visit was great up to the point of speaking with the doctor. Her name is Shana Fakkel. I wanted to retest to make sure I am negative and be able to leave home isolation from being almost two weeks in a room, have peace of mind to be close to my parents which both are 65+ years of age, I live with them and not live with the uncomfortable feeling that I can be COVID-19 positive and affect the people around me. In short, Ms. Fakkel, which I will not even want to call her by Dr. had the audacity of questioning my retesting decision by asking why I would want to make my health insurance pay for another test to have peace of mind. I was shocked! First of all, that is none of her damn business and I have the right to test whenever I feel like it and charge my insurance whenever I feel like it if I PAY FOR IT! Second, she should do her job more professionally and not use a criticizing tone to her patients. I was NOT happy! On a positive note, I still got my test and the rest of the staff is great, so I still recommend this clinic, but it’s sad that one person can ruin it for everyone. I hope to not see her again in the future if I decide to return to PrimaCare.

- Verified patient on 1/6

After being ill over the weekend I wanted to be tested for Covid because I keep my 3 year old great grandson and I also have a sister in her 80's with mucular degeneration that I check on almost daily. I needed the peace of mind that a negative test would provide. I wasn't sure if my insurance would pay for the rapid test but I was willing to pay if it didn't. It does cover the rapid test. I went to Next Care for the Covid test. They treated me with the upmost respect, even when I started coughing like crazy due to the mask and allergies. Everyone was very pleasant, friendly and informative. I even left, in less than an hour, with a printout of my symptoms my vitals and my diagnoses. Something my own personal physician does not provide. All in all, a very pleasant and rewarding experience. I will recommend them to anyone.

- Verified patient on 1/25

As great as a covid test could be

- Verified patient on 8/3

Super, but need a phone call to do my Pre-Surgery Covid test.

- Verified patient on 6/14

First of all, it is very helpful and really streamlines the process to be able to do all paperwork, history, and download insurance card the day before the appointment online. That probably cuts out a good 20 mins or more of time.Then because of covid, they are seeing patients in our vehicles in a designated area in the back of the parking lot. It’s an organized, quick process. The nurse practitioner Beth came out on time, was very friendly, thorough & informative. The process only took about 15 mins including assessment and nasal swab for covid test. And she called me within 20-25 mins later with the result. Yes I was pleased and impressed. I will go back there if urgent care needed again. And yes I would absolutely recommend this clinic to anyone. Booked my appointment online on the urgent care website. They did not charge me at all. Not even the urgent care co-pay of $10. I’m guessing they will bill me after they file on my insurance.

- Verified patient on 9/2

The only challenge I have is that my wife went in for Flu symptoms… she didn’t want to take COVID test because it seems everyone tests positive for CID if they have symptoms , but I talked her into it. She was put on a HYDOCHLORIDE IV - Doctor comes back in 15 mins and says that she has COVID ( The China virus). - Then 20 mins later the AP comes and says “ we’ll you were right you don’t have COVID” - What ??? We said the doc said 20 mins ago she tested positive. - He said, Oh well she a Doctor… I guess she knows better ! - This is EXACTLY why 50% of common sense Americans believe it’s a big scam to control the people and make Fauci & the drug companies rich. - Thanks for revealing the lie once again. - Oh yeah there has not been 1 flu patient in your facility in over a year.

- Verified patient on 8/11

The provider I believe her name was Dr. Clem was quick to get me out the door and acted as if I was not imporatant when I asked for her to look at my son and why was there swelling under his tongue and that I was concerned if there was congestion in his lungs she recommended covid testing I asked her could it be flu since my son had been around my grandbaby who was diagnosed with flu 2 days prior to my visit, her response was it was probably a false positive but she did not explain why she felt it was negative, I did ask for a flu test even thou she was reluctant to do one, then the nurse returned shortly afterwards and stated the results of the covid were negative as well as his flu test but I had to ask again why was there swelling under my son's tongue since both test were negative, the provider finally had told me it was his congestion. I have been here several times in the past and had not had to expierence a bad bed side manner from a provider I am hoping she was just not feeling well or not aware of this and will improve on my next visit.

- Verified patient on 1/26

I specifically asked for a rapid COVID test, they for some reason didn’t listen to my request. If they don’t do the rapid test I wouldn’t of minded going somewhere else. Also the dr said there’s nothing they can do for bronchitis if I have it, let alone didn’t even test for it. I notated on the check info that I specifically wanted to figure out why I’m having these symptoms and unfortunately all I got was the wrong test and no assistance. The wait time after I got in the back was roughly 30 minutes even though there were no other patients.

- Verified patient on 10/7

Only had to wait 30 minutes for my Covid test. Very easy and well organized.

- Verified patient on 7/23

It was overall request. However, I don’t think it was medically necessary to re-see my son for another telemedicine when I requested for my son to have a pcr covid test when he was just seen for the same exact reason the day before. I called the same day of his rapid test to also have a pcr. But because they no longer were doing the covid test the staff told me to come in the next day. When I came back for the pcr test, the staff told me I need to do another telemedicine. I explained the scenario but it seems that the logic was not heard and was told that my son still need to be seen telemedicine. I decided to cancel all together and scheduled my son for the pcr test at CVS. I wished that the staff had checked with the doctor first to confirm if it’s medically necessary to see my patient again for the same reason and to only repeat a test. Sometimes, a process may have some exception. Otherwise, I like the physicians and the convenience, except this time.

- Verified patient on 8/1

I appreciated the receptionist explaining why I might not receive a rapid covid test.

- Verified patient on 12/1

The receptionist was rude and unprofessional. I could hear nurses making negative remarks about COVID tests while in the exam room. Other than the rapid test being quick, I would not recommend this facility to anyone.

- Verified patient on 11/17

This was a quick visit to schedule a Covid test for travel. I had a very positive experience.

- Verified patient on 9/25

My NP was great as always. Our family always gets taken care of at this facility, however this time...Rita Cortez made it weird! She was so awkwardly rude to me on top of doing weird treatment. I received a flu/Covid test, for both test, she stuck the swab down both nostril EACH test. NP said I was getting a steroid shot, I have always had a shot in hip/top of cheek, no problem, she wanted to put the shot in my side hip BONE area! No thank you! At that point I said I was a little uncomfortable doing that, she said that is how everyone there is trained to do it, I told her I have had a shot here before and this has never happened and she instantly walked out. The whole experience was just off. My husband asked the kind lady who took her place if Rita was having a bad day (because we all go through things) but apparently she wasn’t, this is her nature. Sorry Rita Cortez, but you are in the wrong career field if this is how you treat all of your patients on a daily basis!

- Verified patient on 1/29

Went in for covid testing. The staff and nurses were very accomadating. Wait time was short. Took only 30 minutes for the testing and visit.

- Verified patient on 10/26

I needed a COVID test. I tried to register on the website and it set up a video appointment. In a few minutes, someone from the staff called to ask me some follow-up questions. It turned out that I didn’t need the video appointment at all. It would be nice if the website was fixed so that the video conference wouldn’t be set up. Apparently it’s never needed. When I drove up, I tried to call the number that was on the window, the staff member accidentally hung up on me, and I could not reach anyone when I tried to call back. Someone from the staff came out and spoke with me. She was very nice. Then, I got my test with no problems. The staff is great, they just need to fix some hiccups with the website process and handling calls (I got disconnected more than once). Also, the hold music is terrible! But I got what I needed, and it was with minimal issues. I would definitely go back.

- Verified patient on 7/3

After being ill over the weekend I wanted to be tested for Covid because I keep my 3 year old great grandson and I also have a sister in her 80's with mucular degeneration that I check on almost daily. I needed the peace of mind that a negative test would provide. I wasn't sure if my insurance would pay for the rapid test but I was willing to pay if it didn't. It does cover the rapid test. I went to Next Care for the Covid test. They treated me with the upmost respect, even when I started coughing like crazy due to the mask and allergies. Everyone was very pleasant, friendly and informative. I even left, in less than an hour, with a printout of my symptoms my vitals and my diagnoses. Something my own personal physician does not provide. All in all, a very pleasant and rewarding experience. I will recommend them to anyone.

- Verified patient on 1/25

Receptionist (Gracieanna)loudly asked for all waiting room to hear if I was using Medicare? I have been here numerous times using private insurance and nothing provides a reason for such a question. I arrived 30 minutes early. While I was waiting, Three white women show up without appointments, ask questions, Complete the Solv questionnaire at the desk and all get seen before me. When I asked Gracieanna about my appointment, then she stated, oh you’re next. There was no one else left in the waiting room. Once seen the male nurse didn’t weigh me but asked me to tell him my weight and began a discourse about me taking medication for high blood pressure and having been referred by a doctor. When I explained to him, I had never visited for anything other than a Covid test, he was dismissive and provided me with none of my vitals. Temp, blood Pressure and O2. The doctor did provide my vitals after I asked and her bedside manner was the standard of professionalism and care that I have encountered in the past. Without my prior experiences, I would never return; however, I hope this staff team I encountered was an anomaly.

- Verified patient on 9/5

Took my son in for red, sore throat and swollen glands. Told them I didn’t want a covid test because I didn’t want to waste rest if it wasn’t necessary. I did want them to tear him for other things and the Dr. took it as I didn’t want any tests done! Not happy that he was willing to send us on our way without teatimg and give him a shot of rosephen. I was adamant about testing for mono and he was positive! Not sure why Dr would tell me that they are just a band aid stop not much they can do for us. I also asked for a referral which he was going to give us but being that he was finally tested and positive for mono we didn’t need the referral. Our appointment was for 11:30 am and didn’t see Dr until 12:50 pm. Not happy at all about this visit! He should have been tested the last time we were in on January 4, ***

- Verified patient on 2/3

The staff worked me in for a covid test since I had driven about an hour to get there. I appreciate that very much.

- Verified patient on 12/7

Waco 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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