Very fast and easy. I'll definitely use Careful Mobile HUB again.
Self-pay pricing
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
Rapid
Results in same day $160
Video Visits
4.8113
Care so fast, you'll still be in your PJs
As low as $49 per visit
Recent 5-star patient review
I was seen quickly, without being in a waiting room for hours! Friendly and thorough, an amazing patient experience!
This was our second visit to Indigo, and I’ve been really impressed both times. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and professional- so much so that it’s almost enjoyable! Thank you for taking such good care of us!
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.
Everything was fine at this clinic. I just didn’t realize I would be charged for a doctor’s visit when I was just coming for a COVID test. That needs to be more transparent. I was not expecting a bill for a COVID test.
Self-pay pricing
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.
When I need an urgent care to go to I always choose Indigo in Poulsbo! The staff are very friendly and personable. The clinic and exam rooms are always clean. Never a long wait time.
Lovely experience from Dr. Jorein! Would definitely recommend to everyone.
Self-pay pricing
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
Rapid
Results in < 1 hour $199
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min $45
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VIDEO: Dr. Isaac Thomsen, pediatric infectious disease specialist, discusses COVID-19 and Delta variant and what in means for kids.Watch now!
Latest COVID Testing updates
May 10, 2022
The nation's flu positivity test rate reached nearly 10 percent in mid-April, making it the first time such an increase has occurred so late in the flu season since 1982 (NBC News)
May 6, 2022
The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV2 virus is intrinsically as severe as previous variants, according to a preprint version of a large U.S. study that counters assumptions in other studies that it was more transmissible but less severe. (Reuters)
May 2, 2022
COVID-19 cases are rising in nearly every corner of the United States, yet hospitalizations remain low, partly a reflection of greater immunity in the population. (NY Times)
Apr 26, 2022
CDC estimates that 3 in 4 children have had COVID-19 infections and more than half of all Americans had signs of previous infections (US News)
Apr 21, 2022
A viral offspring of the BA.2 COVID-19 subvariant, called BA.2.12.1, is gaining a foothold in the United States. The variant appears to be more transmissible than BA.2, but there is no evidence yet that it causes more severe disease. (Verywell Health)
Apr 11, 2022
Philadelphia is bringing back its indoor mask mandate beginning April 18 after a 50% increase in Covid-19 cases in the past 10 days. (Bloomberg)
Apr 7, 2022
The Omicron subvariant known as BA.2 is the dominant strain circulating around the U.S., accounting for almost three out of every four cases. (Axios)
Apr 7, 2022
A U.S. appeals court panel on Thursday reinstated President Joe Biden's executive order mandating that federal civilian employees be vaccinated against COVID-19. (Reuters)
Apr 5, 2022
FDA pulls authorization for GSK-Vir's COVID therapy as BA.2 cases rise. Data suggests these treatments are unlikely to be effective against the dominant Omicron sub-variant in the country. (Reuters)
Mar 29, 2022
FDA authorizes second coronavirus booster shot for people 50 and older, a decision intended to help shore up protection against severe illness. (Washington Post)
Mar 25, 2022
Nationwide, COVID-19 cases decreased 15 percent over the past 14 days, according to HHS data collected by The New York Times. But as the more contagious omicron subvariant BA.2 continues to spread, cases are ticking upward in 10 states and D.C. as of March 25. (Becker's Hospital Review)
Mar 23, 2022
Moderna’s two-dose Covid vaccine was about 44% effective at preventing infection from omicron in children 6 months to under 2 years old and about 38% effective for children 2- to 5-years-old
Mar 23, 2022
School mask mandates in the U.S. reduced COVID-19 Delta variant transmission by 72%, a study finds. (CityBeat)
Mar 22, 2022
Omicron BA.2 variant now represents more than 50% of COVID cases in parts of Northeast, CDC estimates (Wall Street Journal)
Mar 22, 2022
After weeks in free fall, new Covid-19 cases are starting to level off in the US, as the BA.2 subvariant continues its ascent. (CNN)
Mar 21, 2022
China battles biggest surge in Covid cases since original Wuhan outbreak. China says it recorded more than 4,300 new Covid-19 cases on March 20, according to the National Health Commission.
Mar 21, 2022
Multiple U.S. states will close mass COVID testing sites in the following weeks despite concerns from health experts that the country will be unprepared if a new wave of cases hits following reported surges in European countries. (Seattle Times)
Mar 20, 2022
About 95% of Americans 16 and older have antibodies against COVID-19 as of December, the most recent date that data is available, according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CNN)
Mar 19, 2022
“I expect we’ll see a wave in the U.S. sooner than what most people expect,” said Kristian Andersen, a virologist at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, Calif. "Such a wave would be accompanied by rising hospitalizations and deaths.” (New Yotk Times)
Mar 19, 2022
A study has shown 49.6% of those with long COVID reported they had difficulty getting medical professionals to take their symptoms seriously. 78% of people who reported they had long COVID symptoms during the study stated they experienced difficulties with concentration.
Feb 23, 2022
Flu season has been mild and is waning, but CDC is not willing to call it over. Despite a circulating strain of influenza that usually causes severe illness, this season has been mild. However, experts say a late winter or spring surge is possible. (NBC News)
Feb 1, 2022
Pfizer-BioNTech are expected to submit to the FDA as early as Tuesday a request for emergency-use authorization for their COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months to 5 years old. Those familiar with the situation indicate the vaccine for children under 5 could be available by the end of February (Washington Post)
Jan 19, 2022
Three separate lab studies indicate Paxlovid, Pfizer's COVID pill, is effective against the Omicron variant despite its mutations (Wall Street Journal)
Jan 19, 2022
COVID-19 cases in NYC show Omicron infections may be plummeting, a positive indication that the wave of the highly infectious variant may subside as quickly as it arrived.
Jan 18, 2022
The USPS is now taking orders for free COVID-19 test kits and will prioritize shipments to Americans from ZIP codes that have experienced high rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths, with the first 20% of each day's orders going to those areas. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The Biden administration announced Monday that insurance companies and health plans will be required to cover eight free over-the-counter at-home tests per covered individual per month. For instance, a family of four all on the same plan would be able to get up to 32 of these tests covered by their health plan per month. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The omicron-driven surge has sent COVID-19 hospitalizations skyrocketing across the U.S., reaching a new pandemic high this week with 145,982 patients hospitalized. Patients with COVID now fill about 30% of ICU beds in the nation. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. State Department on Monday advised against travel to neighboring Canada because of a rising number of COVID cases as the omicron variant spreads. (NBC News)
Jan 4, 2022
The Omicron variant accounted for more than 95% of all new COVID-19 cases reported in the past week that ended Saturday, up from 77% and 38% for the prior two weeks, respectively. (CDC)
Jan 4, 2022
Nearly 1 in 100 Americans have tested positive for the virus in just the last week, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Over 1 million cases were reported in the U.S. on Monday alone, which is the highest during the Pandemic. (USA Today)
Jan 3, 2022
The Omicron coronavirus variant is better at circumventing vaccinated peoples' immunity than the Delta variant, according to a Danish study published last week, helping explain why Omicron is spreading more rapidly. (Reuters)
Jan 3, 2022
According to the FDA, “Early data suggests that antigen tests do detect the omicron variant but may have reduced sensitivity,” citing findings from a preliminary lab study shared Dec. 28. This means that more false negative antigen tests are possible, particularly in the early stages of the disease.
Dec 28, 2021
Despite the spread of the Omicron variant, the U.S. has only a 62% vaccination rate with the least vaccinated counties remaining unswayed (NY Times)
Dec 28, 2021
Rising COVID-19 cases contributed to airlines canceling more than 1,000 flights on Monday, prompting Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert, to suggest the government consider mandating vaccines for domestic flights. (Reuters)
Dec 28, 2021
The CDC has cut the amount of time it recommends people should isolate after testing positive for COVID-19 from 10 days to 5. Health officials similarly reduced the amount of time a person should quarantine after coming into contact with someone who tests positive. (USA Today)
Dec 22, 2021
FDA authorizes Pfizer’s Covid treatment pill, the first oral antiviral drug cleared during the pandemic (CNBC)
Dec 20, 2021
Fauci: Pfizer’s possibly game-changing COVID-19 pill won’t be widely available for ‘months’ (Forbes)
Dec 17, 2021
CDC has narrowed use of J&J vaccine, officially recommending the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines when they are available. The recommendation follows growing concerns about rare blood clots associated with the J&J vaccine.
Dec 16, 2021
The CDC has warned that the rapidly spreading Omicron variant could bring a COVID-19 punishing wave as soon as January, while indicating existing vaccine regimen plus boosters are effective in protecting against serious illness and death. (Washington Post)
Dec 16, 2021
United States stands on the cusp of surpassing 800,000 deaths from the virus, with 600,000 of those deaths being people 65 and older. In fact, One in 100 older Americans has died from the virus. In fact, 1 in 100 older Americans has died from the virus. (New York Times)
Dec 12, 2021
Omicron may require fourth vaccine dose sooner than expected, Pfizer says (Washington Post)
Dec 7, 2021
Researchers in South Africa, where the Omicron COVID-19 variant is spreading quickly, say it may cause less serious COVID cases than other forms of the virus, but it is unclear whether that will hold true. (NY Times)
Dec 1, 2021
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Omicron COVID-19 variant has now been identified in at least 24 countries, including the United States with the first reported case being identified in California. (NPR, New York Times)
Nov 29, 2021
The World Health Organization is warning that the new omicron variant of the coronavirus poses a "very high" global risk because of the possibility that it spreads more easily and might resist vaccines and immunity in people who were infected with previous strains. (NPR)
Nov 28, 2021
S.African doctor says patients with Omicron variant have "very mild" symptoms (Reuters)
Nov 19, 2021
FDA has authorized COVID booster shots for all fully vaccinated Americans who are age 18 and older for both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. CDC will make the final determination on Friday.
Nov 5, 2021
Pfizer antiviral pill reduced risk of covid hospitalization and death by 89 percent in high-risk people, company study shows. The protective effect was so convincing that an independent panel monitoring a trial of the drug advised it be stopped early. (Washington Post)
Nov 3, 2021
CDC has officially recommended the pediatric dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, opening the door for 28 million US kids to be vaccinated. This decision follows "robust" antibody response and "favorable" safety outcomes in kids who received the two-dose regimen in clinical trials. (CDC, NPR)
Oct 29, 2021
FDA has emergency use authorized (EUA) the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children 5 to 11 for. Experts said the shot could bring relief to parents anxious about their children getting sick, though some worry that those most at risk may slip through the cracks. (NY Times)
Oct 26, 2021
FDA advisory panel has unanimously recommended Pfizer’s low-dose COVID vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11. The endorsement was a critical step in getting more kids in the U.S. protected against the virus. The agency doesn’t always follow the advice of its independent committee, but it often does. (CNBC)
Oct 21, 2021
For individuals who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months ago, the following groups are eligible for a COVID booster shot: (1) 65 years and older, (2) Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings, (3) Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions, and (4) Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings. For people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18+ and who were vaccinated two or more months ago. (CDC)
Oct 11, 2021
Demand for rapid at-home COVID tests has been high, and shoppers find either empty shelves in drugstores or get “out of stock” messages online as companies rushing to meet demand (WHYY / NPR)
Oct 7, 2021
Pfizer asked the U.S. government Thursday to allow use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11, formally filing its application with the FDA. If regulators agree, shots could begin within a matter of weeks. (AP)
Oct 7, 2021
Starting Oct. 30, the Canadian government will require all air travelers and passengers on interprovincial trains to be vaccinated against COVID-19. (USA Today)
Oct 6, 2021
The Biden administration on Wednesday announced a new $1 billion investment in home coronavirus tests that will quadruple the nation's supply of these rapid tests by early December, officials said. (USA Today)
Oct 1, 2021
About a third of parents say they want to vaccinate their 5-to-11-year-old children “right away” once a coronavirus vaccine is available for that age group, according to a report from the Kaiser Family Foundation. (Washington Post)
Sep 28, 2021
Pfizer submits data to FDA, seeking emergency use authorization (EUA) for its COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 These younger kids could be vaccinated by Halloween, Pfizer CEO says. (NBC News)
Sep 27, 2021
The COVID pandemic has become the deadliest outbreak in American history. According to data from Johns Hopkins University 681,253 individuals in the U.S. have died from COVID-19, with an estimated 675,000 people during the 1918 flu pandemic. (Smithsonian)
Sep 24, 2021
The CDC has announced recommendations for booster shots and who should receive them:
(1) People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series,(2) People aged 50–64 years with underlying medical conditions should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series,(3) People aged 18–49 years with underlying medical conditions may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks, and(4) People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks.
Sep 23, 2021
The FDA has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for a booster dose of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine in people 65 and older, people at high risk of severe disease, and people whose jobs put them at risk of infection. (CNN)
Sep 20, 2021
Pfizer reports a low dose of their COVID vaccine is safe and effective in children ages 5 to 11 and are seeking emergency use authorization as they continue to accumulate data to support an application for full approval in children. (Washington Post)
Sep 14, 2021
Top U.S. health officials believe that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine could be authorized for children aged 5-11 years old by the end of October (Reuters)
Sep 9, 2021
President Biden and the U.S. Department of Labor will issue a rule requiring businesses with more than 100 employees to have their workers vaccinated or tested weekly, officials said on Thursday.
Sep 9, 2021
Authorities are expecting an active flu season this year, threatening hospitals already struggling to keep up with COVID-19 strains. There is hope that COVID and flu vaccines will keep case counts low this winter. (Wall Street Journal)
Sep 8, 2021
COVID-19 testing infrastructure nationally struggles to keep up with Delta variant demand. President Biden will address the situation laying out the next phase of the federal pandemic response.
Sep 7, 2021
World Health Organization (WHO): COVID-19 is likely “here to stay” as the virus continues to mutate similarly to the influenza (flu) pandemic viruses. (CNBC)
Aug 23, 2021
U.S. FDA has officially granted full approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Aug 19, 2021
As the Delta variant spreads through the US, demand for COVID testing has risen to levels previously seen in November of 2020. Urgent care centers are again on the front lines of care and experiencing record high patient volumes.
Aug 17, 2021
The flu vaccine may lower the risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Researchers studied nearly 75,000 COVID-19 patients, half of whom had received the most recently available flu shot.
Aug 15, 2021
CDC reports that COVID-19 has caused more pediatric deaths than the flu since the pandemic began.
Aug 13, 2021
Pediatric hospitals are seeing a spike in RSV cases as COVID-19 Delta variant continues, flu season approaches.
Aug 4, 2021
The Delta variant now accounts for about 93% of all COVID-19 cases in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Aug 3, 2021
The seven-day average of daily COVID cases in the U.S. surpassed the peak seen last summer when the nation didn’t have an authorized vaccine, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said. Friday July 30 saw 72,790 new COVID cases nationwide.
Jul 9, 2021
Current guidance from the CDC says fully vaccinated people can refrain from routine COVID testing, however, some experts are questioning whether that approach should change given the spread of the new Delta variant.
Jul 7, 2021
Children have found a manipulative method generate false-positive COVID tests using soft drinks, all in an effort to get out of school.
May 14, 2021
Walmart, the nation's largest retailer, says fully vaccinated employees and customers will not need to wear a mask inside stores beginning on Tuesday, based on the latest guidance from the CDC.
May 14, 2021
Target, Home Depot, CVS and Harris Teeter are among the chains that will continue to require masks in store, though they are reviewing new CDC guidance and reevaluating store policies.
May 13, 2021
CDC: If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, incl. local business and workplace guidance.
Apr 27, 2021
The CDC on Tuesday eased guidelines on mask-wearing for Americans, noting many outdoor activities are now safe without a mask following significant progress with the COVID-19 vaccine and reductions in new daily cases nationwide.
Apr 26, 2021
As of Sunday, April 25, Virginia has had 654,210 total cases of COVID-19, including confirmed lab tests and clinical diagnoses, according to the Virginia Department of Health. That total reflects a 884 case increase since Saturday. The Virginia Department of Health reports a 6.1% 7-day positivity rate for total testing encounters, and a 5.5% 7-day positivity rate for PCR tests. 16 additional deaths were reported on Sunday, leaving the death toll at 10,691.
Apr 26, 2021
A Yakima County judge last week blocked some COVID-related restrictions on farms and orchards, issuing an injunction stopping the state from enforcing a series of regulations that required twice-daily visits from medical staff to isolated workers, required workers to be within 20 minutes of an emergency room and an hour from a ventilator, and provided open access to people from the community.
Apr 23, 2021
Washington state is entering its 4th COVID-19 wave, Gov. Jay Inslee said April 22, citing a significant increase in new infections and hospitalizations. The rolling seven-day average of new infections is currently around 1,300 per day, compared to 662 on March 11, reports The New York Times.
Apr 22, 2021
More than 86 million U.S. adults are now fully vaccinated with more than 200 million shots administered, but experts fear that enthusiasm for getting the vaccine could be falling and many Americans may be too eager to take off their masks.
Apr 6, 2021
Epidemiologists and other public health experts are debating whether to use rapid COVID-19 tests as admission tickets to schools, businesses and entertainment and sports venues. Even with the quickening pace of vaccinations, it will be months before all Americans who want COVID-19 vaccines receive them. As a result, testing could become ubiquitous as a requirement for students, office workers, spectators and visitors seeking to gather indoors.
Apr 1, 2021
FDA approves two new over-the-counter COVID tests: Abbott's BinaxNOW and Quidel Quickvue tests will soon be available at drug stores in two-packs for between $15 and $20.
Mar 31, 2021
Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC: "Vaccinated people do not carry the virus — they don’t get sick.” Walensky was referring to a new CDC study that suggests those fully inoculated with the vaccines produced by Moderna and Pfizer don’t transmit the virus.
Mar 30, 2021
Two Seattle coronavirus testing sites at Rainier Beach and West Seattle will continue testing for the disease instead of shifting to only administering vaccinations. Testing was set to end today, but the city decided to keep testing because of a surge of COVID-19 infections in Seattle during the past two weeks.
COVID Testing FAQs
How much does COVID testing cost?
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 Seattle?
COVID testing is available for free under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which includes testing for those without health insurance. Check with your Seattle-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 Seattle?
COVID testing is available at many outlets near Seattle 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 Seattle?
Rapid testing—both PCR (molecular) and antigen tests—is offered through many Seattle-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 Seattle?
Same-day and next day appointments for COVID testing in Seattle 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?
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?
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 Testing reviews (20)
This was my first covid test of any kind. I filled out my insurance info online ahead of time and made an appointment (there were several times available for the same day when I looked in the morning). When I pulled into the parking lot it was clearly marked with signage and I understood where to go to stand in line. I didn’t wait in line very long - only about 5-10 minutes. Since I’d already checked in online I walked up to the table to which I was directed, answered a few questions, had the long cotton swab inserted into both sinuses for 10 seconds on each side, received info on how to access test results, and left to go back to my car. The entire process took about 15 minutes.
- Verified patient on 10/22
I was able to make an appointment to get a Covid test in 45 minutes. Arrived early, I only waited about 5 minutes in line. The staff was cordial, especially the person administering the test who expressed concern that I was comfortable with her timing. It all appeared to run efficiently, including the vaccine lines.
I did however wonder what it would be like waiting in the line area with open sides in bad weather. I was there on a beautiful day, but the west breeze was blowing material from the cattails, just on the other side of the fence, through the waiting line area & aggravating people’s allergies.
The written information I received did not indicate a timeframe to check my test results. I just checked the website & was surprised to see that I had test results just 15 hours after my test!
- Verified patient on 4/1
Was blown away with how quickly I was able to get in and out. Probably took 8 minutes at most from the time I pulled in until the time I pulled out. Bill was administering the test for me and he was very professional and helpful throughout the process. Everyone says it’s uncomfortable to get the test but I didn’t find it bad at all. Worst part was eyes watering a little for which Bill prepared me for with a tissue :) The one thing I was surprised is they never asked for my ID but they did use my phone number and DOB to verify me. All in all, this was a well oiled machine. Very smart to turn the emissions testing facilities into COVID testing; great use of city resources!
- Verified patient on 7/29
I had made an appointment during my lunch break to get covid tested at the UW facility but when I arrived there was a very long line of cars and no separation for drive up versus appointment line. I had to turn around before testing in order to not be late for work. I decided to return back after I got off work at 5:30 as the facility was open until 6:30 according to the online hours. When I arrived again the facility had closed early due to high volume. I found this extremely inconvenient as I had to get covid tested for a time sensitive work requirement. I returned the next morning at 7:30 am when they opened and was finally able to get in line to get tested.
If there are options to make an appointment online there should be a separate entry line so that those who have scheduled appointments don’t have to wait, otherwise I don’t see a point in making appointments.
- Verified patient on 8/4
I have had 7 Covid tests and this tester went so far in it scratched the back of my throat. When I pulled back to indicate he was borderline hurting me, instead of pausing and letting us settle back into the moment together he just pushed the swab back further. It was very poor human being to human being experience. When I commented that he went further than any other test I had had, and I was visibly more than uncomfortable, he just said everyone else must not be doing it right. I would recommend he be trained to pause when there is severe signs of discomfort or pain rather than pushing further when a patient is trying to get away from him. It has been 2 hours and I am still in pain.
- Verified patient on 3/3
Testing center was great. It was hard for me to find it online. I called 4 different places that had no availability/open testing before my wife let me know about the city of Seattle UW testing location. Any steps to make it more readily apparent or the first result when googling “covid testing Seattle” would be a huge help. I used google maps to search that and was directed to Walgreens, zoom+ care, indigo urgent care, and Swedish first hill. All of these places required a referral or had convoluted sign up processes that did not result in my ability to get testing done the same day. Glad my wife knew about your testing center because sign up was easy and I was able to get in within the hour of signing up.
- Verified patient on 3/5
As a person who is highly anxious of being poked and prodded by a doctor or dentist, I believe that I couldn’t have had a better experience than the one I had when I went in for a nasal swab at 1:40pm on Tuesday, February 16th at the Aurora Avenue test site.
The greeter/intake gal, Tyler, was very friendly and kind and addressed my anxiety when I told her it was my first Covid test and that I was really scared. She assured me that it was quick and not any more uncomfortable that when you mix your wasabi/soy a little too strong at the sushi restaurant.
Then, thanks be to God, the administrator of the test, Matt, was extremely patient with me (I am grateful that I thought to go at a not busy time so that I didn’t feel extra anxiety thinking I was holding up the queue). He described what would happen, how long it would take, and told me it would be okay. This helped me stop being jittery and relax enough to give it a try.
I got really scared with the first attempt and how it felt, and Matt immediately yet gently removed the swab so that I could take a break. I asked him if it was going to go in further than that and he said “Oh yes” and I immediately started crying, hard. (This would be my only request of him the next time I perhaps have to see him: to intonate causally the ‘yes’ in order to help to minimize anxious patients’ fears going into a second attempt. Other than that little
Matt let me take the time I needed (45+ seconds I’d imagine) to collect myself to try again, and suggested I step back to lean on the wall to support myself and be able to relax more.
That helped enough to perform the swabs (1 in each nostril), along with his verbal comforting while doing the swab, and it helped me A LOT (I emphasize this) that he counted down the last 4 seconds.
I cried again afterwards out of shame for falling apart (I am nearly 40 years old), and Matt told me I did a great job and allowed an elbow bump, though I wish I could’ve given him a hug.
Thank you Matt. And Tyler!
Heather the midday, middle-aged five year old.
- Verified patient on 2/16
It was great. I was greeted by a screener who checked me in. Didn’t have a pleasant experience with one lady who was sitting in the far right crate (10/31/2020 between 9-10AM). She was rude and unprofessional. I said, “Hello” first, she didn’t respond. I told her my name, appointment time, & she responded, “IT DOESN’T MATTER.” I understand this is a walk-in testing center & you’re not seen at your appointment time, but she didn’t bother asking my name or anything until i told her so what are we doing then? Then she finally verified my name & dob. The man in scrubs behind called me in & he gave me the best experience. I never had a covid test done before so he guided me through the whole process. It was super painless, but everyone’s anatomy & nasal passageway is different. So it’s different for everyone. I was lucky I had a straight shot. Overall, line moves pretty quickly.
- Verified patient on 10/31
I had a great experience getting my Covid test!
I'm pretty sure I got at least the second or third best Swabber on the team. His name was Alan. It was written across his mask in big black letters but I asked him his name anyway, just to be sure he was wearing the right mask. With that confirmed, I had the confidence to continue. Alan's curbside manner was both professional and affable. He let me know what to expect before he began the swabbing and apart from a few involuntary tears (mine, not his) the test was over. Totally painless and quick.
Big thank you to all of the folks at the testing site for thier commitment, professionalism and friendliness. It's a really great service to Seattle!
- Verified patient on 7/28
The UW Covid testing walk-up in Ballard is the best!! Scheduling was easy, swabbing was even easier. We were done and in the car back home in 5 minutes. Results came in 22 hours!!! Now THAT is an efficient machine. Thank you to every person who makes this happen. We’ve visited this site many times and you’ve never let us down. And, it’s free for everyone, so if you’re ever in doubt or worried you might have COVID, go get tested here!
Lastly, I want to give the *UW virology labs* a special shout-out for all the hard work they’ve been doing, around the clock, for our city. As you guys pipette behind the scenes, soaking and testing endless sticks, you are making a difference for people you will never meet. What you do matters! These results inform every faceless swab on how to keep themselves, their family, friends and community safe. Thank you, on behalf of one faceless swab and her little swablettes too.
- Verified patient on 10/31
Hi, I needed a fast unscheduled covid test today after experiencing strong vertigo for the first time in my life that sent me to Swedish emergency room last night.
The doctor didn't appear to know about the link between vertigo & covid that I found in an NIH government research paper via Google after I arrived home from emergency room.
Also, my sister & a good friend both told me today that in the past month they also had very strong vertigo for the first time too. This seemed like wayyyy too much of a coincidence so I wanted a fast covid test today. THANK YOU for making it possible!!! I look forward to the results soon.
Happy Holidays,
A Ballard Mom
PS. Please don't publish my name.
- Verified patient on 12/12
The lady who did my covid test was super nice and understanding of my covid test anxiety. I have sensory issues so getting the covid test done is brutally painful, and quite an experience for me.(they need a less invasive test still).Even though I’m vaccinated and don’t go out I wanted to do it to make my family feel comfortable having a visit with me. My roommates said I shouldn’t because they’ve seen how anxious I’ve gotten in the past, and because I’ve already been fully vaccinated. But the lady who gave me the test was very nice, reassuring, and as gentle as she could be. I will come back here the next time I want to see my family because of my positive experience today. I didn’t get the lady’s name, but THANK YOU!!(you know who you are)
- Verified patient on 3/18
I was instructed online to drive up at 3:40 for a 3:55 appointment. When I arrived I was directed by a uniformed and masked SPD officer to a lane where there were 3 vehicles waiting in line ahead of me. Affixed to the post of the covered open air testing area was a large sign advising the Covid test station was being run by the SFD and UW. The process ahead of me moved forward in a timely manner. When I was first in line I was greated by a person fully suited, masked, and gloved. She verified my name and date of birth verbally, put a tag on my windshield, and moments later I moved forward to the first station, where a cheerful person, again fully gowned, masked and gloved, verified verbally again my name and date of birth, gave me a consent and information form, and an empty vial with my contact information and date on it, and directed me to drive forward. At the test station the SFD EMT, again fully masked, gowned, and gloved, with the addition of a clear face shield, asked if my vehicle were in park with engine off.
I confirmed. She asked to see the vial label and that I hold it during the test.
She asked what my symptoms were and if I had been tested before. Upon my negative response she explained the procedure in detail. She verbally instructed me to position my head comfortably, pull my mask down off my nose and leave it over my mouth. She then instructed me to breathe normally as she inserted the test swab in my right nostril. Her manner was calm and reassuring. The insertion was uncomfortable, but not intolerable. My eyes began watering. Upon completion of the right nostril insertion, she allowed me a moment, instructed me to reposition my head slightly, and advised that the sensation I would feel in my left nostril may be stronger than the right. She again requested that I breathe normally during the insertion. The left nostril insertion was more uncomfortable but not intolerable. She thanked me for my patience and advised thst the test results would be available in 24 to 72 hours and wished me a good day. I exited the facility under the direction of a uniformed and masked SPD officer at 3:53pm.
- Verified patient on 12/13
The only area which could use improvement is in the waiting experience. The entrance was so clogged with vehicles when I arrived that cars were lining up in the street to get in. Once I got to the driveway, no one asked if I had an appointment (which I did) and I entered the same queue with people who (I assume) drove up without an appointment. It would have been a smoother and more efficient process if all drivers are asked if they have an appointment and those who do can be funneled to special lanes where the wait hopefully won’t be as long. That said, all the staff members were terrific and I’m very grateful to the City of Seattle for making Covid testing so easy to get. Thank you.
- Verified patient on 10/22
In a nut shell, easy-schmesy! Staff (all 3 that we interacted with) were great.
I do have a suggestion - an additional sign on the road driving in. On the Seattle "Register for Covid testing - No symptoms", it has this address "4239 Walla Walla Road" and "Located in the E1 parking lot". At another address spot (I think on Solv notice sent me?) it had "2800 NE Clark Rd". I inputted Clark Rd address in Google, and ended up at a small grey building (driving range office?) thinking "This doesn't look right" There were no other cars around to lead me in the right direction. I assumed it was the testing facility, and I think a pic of that building came up on Google maps. It was a little confusing for my wife and I for a minute.
My suggestion is to put a sign there (something like "Covid Testing - continue straight ahead") with an arrow, would be helpful.
- Verified patient on 1/6
The complete process took less than an hour of my time which is kind of humorous since I’m not doing anything else right now due to the pandemic. I signed up online and had a same day appointment within 45 minutes. I arrived early and was seen a few minutes early. The team at the first gate were very courteous and professional and made me feel at ease. The person who did my test “Rosanna” was exceptional and the process was painless. If anything it only tickled and I was glad to have it done and over with and now I’ll wait for my results patiently and finish my quarantine time. Overall outstanding performance and service by the team at Sodo Seattle. I would highly recommend this location to anyone who has any uneasiness at all about having a Covid test taken.
- Verified patient on 1/13
As my partner and I are both essential workers, we knew we needed to be tested. I get terrible “white coat anxiety” and had to be convinced by him to actually get tested. But the process was so much better than I could imagine. Everyone was super friendly, reassuring, professional, and just super positive. It was such a fast process (even though we didn’t have an appointment), and the test wasn’t even that bothersome. To be honest, I’d rather get a covid test than a strep test any day. It only made my eyes water a little and that was it. As we left, I kept ranting and raving about how easy it was and how everyone should be tested. If I could give the employees there a tip, I would. Thank you for all of your work and making me (a medically anxious person) feel so good. Plus, one of the people that worked with us had really cool earrings that I wish I had. Thank you all!
- Verified patient on 7/18
This drive thru covid testing site was speedy and efficient. My boyfriend and I checked in (he has insurance and I don’t), checked in and had us make sure our name and date of birth were correct on the vile. The health care professional instructed us how to perform the anterior nares swab on ourselves and then placed it in the vile. We were given a handout piece of paper with QR codes to scan and get our results and also answers a handful of questions that stated we would not be charged for the covid test. I asked the lady checking us in what type of test we were getting and she said PCR that results within 3 day. Overall good experience.
- Verified patient on 12/11
Getting a covid test isn’t how I want to spend my average day, but I have to say this was a wonderful experience! There’s an energy of positivity and hope there; you can tell that everyone is excited to be doing important work and helping with this virus. Each person I spoke with was knowledgeable and had a great attitude. My biggest recommendation to anyone coming in is to make an appointment if you can, but don’t stress about the time you get there that day. The appointment really just saves you paperwork/time while you’re there so that you can move in and out a quickly as possible. Granted, I went midday on a Tuesday, but there was essentially no wait and I was able to complete the visit in just a few minutes. I got my results back in under 24 hours too! Thank you to the staff here for being so wonderful!!
- Verified patient on 1/6
I booked 3 appointments for my family. For some reason the appointment for myself didn’t complete it’s booking online. Luckily the man checking us in was absolutely wonderful and helpful. He fixed it and made sure I could still get in for my test I scheduled.
The man who handed us our QR code paperwork was very kind and helpful!
Lastly, the girl who handed us our swabs and walked us through was actually the nicest one I’ve had yet. Normally with all the other companies, they seem fed up with people (which is understandable) but this women as extremely nice, and had a really great attitude. Everyone in my family actually commented on how nice and easy the whole process was when we left.
Even if it’s just a Covid test, it’s really nice to know people take their jobs seriously and gave great bedside manner. Especially because a lot of people going through the line are sick and not feeling too happy.
We appreciate companies who pride themselves in good bedside manner.
I’ll definitely only use this place from now on!
- Verified patient on 9/11
Seattle 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:
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.
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.
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.
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.