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COVID testing & Rapid testing near me in Snoqualmie, WA

COVID Test
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20 instant-book locations

6140 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Issaquah, WA 980296140 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE
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
4.78(5.4k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Issaquah - 6140 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Issaquah
Great place for adults and kids! Very clean and professional
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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530 228th Ave NE, Sammamish, WA 98074530 228th Ave NE
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
4.94(161 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Sammamish - 530 228th Ave NE
This clinic is a little further away from my home but I’m thankful I went here today. The staff were all very kind and made sure I was comfortable with my plan of treatment. I easily made a appt online and didn’t have too long of a wait. Claudia PA-C was absolutely wonderful.
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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26380 238th Ln SE, Maple Valley, WA 9803826380 238th Ln SE
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
4.84(4.6k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Maple Valley - 26380 238th Ln SE
Thank you all for listening and helping me and my family on Thanksgiving.
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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15600 NE 8th St, Bellevue, WA 9800815600 NE 8th St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.66(4.3k reviews)
MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Bellevue - 15600 NE 8th St, Bellevue
was very nice people was very helpful and tender I did not have any appointments was emergency
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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15946 Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 9805215946 Redmond 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 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.82(605 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Redmond - 15946 Redmond Way
Had a great experience with the staff and nurses at MultiCare indigo in Redmond. Made an appointment and was able to get in there within a few hours for a clogged up eardrum. They got me right in and were able to flush out both of my ears and restore my hearing. Extremely pleased with their their courteousness and care. They even stayed after closing to address my other ear which was nearly clogged as well. I'm grateful to all of them!
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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27111 167th Pl SE, Covington, WA 9804227111 167th Pl SE
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
4.75(8k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Covington - 27111 167th Pl SE, Covington
Positive experience. Appreciate having a place to go when regular Dr office is closed. The Staff is always kind and thoughtful.
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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12423 Totem Lake Blvd NE, Kirkland, WA 9803412423 Totem Lake Blvd NE
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
4.81(5.6k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Kirkland - 12423 Totem Lake Blvd NE, Kirkland
Super quick and very good 👍🏻
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

17275 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila, WA 9818817275 Southcenter Pkwy
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
4.76(6.5k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Tukwila - 17275 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila
Everyone from the front desk, nurse assistant and doctor Hoang were so helpful and kind.
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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15215 52nd Ave S, Tukwila, WA 9818815215 52nd Ave S
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SunClosed
5.0(21 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

South Center Medical Clinic, Primary Care Clinic - 15215 52nd Ave S
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min

AVAILABLE TIMES

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15215 52nd Ave S, Tukwila, WA 9818815215 52nd Ave S
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • SunClosed
5.0(8 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

AVAILABLE TIMES

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321 Ramsay Way, Kent, WA 98032321 Ramsay 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 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.73(2k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Kent Station - 321 Ramsay Way
I would not hesitate to go to them again. Thank-you, for a caring and very comfortable experience!
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

3820 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 981183820 Rainier Ave S
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
4.77(4.9k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Rainier - 3820 Rainier Ave S, Seattle
Excellent provider and friendly staff. I would recommend!!!
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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15870 1st Ave S, Burien, WA 9814815870 1st Ave S
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
4.77(6.5k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Burien - 15870 1st Ave S, Burien
The staff are friendly and caring. Seem to have gone out of their way to have me checked in. I'll go back there again. Very nice staff, after long hours they still have smiles on their faces
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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118 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105118 NE 45th St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.73(4.8k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Wallingford - 118 NE 45th St, Seattle
Quick and easy to be seen. Everyone was pleasant to interact with.
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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23131 Bothell Everett Hwy, Bothell, WA 9802123131 Bothell Everett Hwy
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
4.76(5.2k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Bothell - 23131 Bothell Everett Hwy, Bothell
Excellent service professional and friendly staff.
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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7096 Lakeland Hills Way, Auburn, WA 980927096 Lakeland Hills 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 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.85(5.5k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Auburn | Lakeland Commons - 7096 Lakeland Hills Way
The provider and staff were excellent! I felt heard, and cared for. They were very thorough.
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day
Antigen Test
Time to results unknown

AVAILABLE TIMES

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31861 Gateway Center Blvd S, Federal Way, WA 9800331861 Gateway Center Blvd S
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
4.79(7.7k reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care, Federal Way - 31861 Gateway Center Blvd S, Federal Way
My sweet 5 year old was showing signs of having an ear infection. Called to see what wait times were like, and they got us in within an hour or so of calling. Probably the best urgent care wait system I’ve ever seen! So impressed with all of the staff! My son loved his nurse! Thank you guys for making going to the dr painless!
PCR Test
Results in 1-3 days
PCR Test
Rapid
Results in same day

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1750 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA 980031750 S 320th St
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
4.66(29 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Carbon Health Urgent Care, The Commons at Federal Way - 1750 S 320th St
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Antigen Test
Results in 15 min
$75
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in same day
$75

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1045 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA 980031045 S 320th St
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
4.93(340 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Prudent Medical, Federal Way - 1045 S 320th St
Dr Sarah Phillips is amazing she has the best attitude ever. I love coming to see her. She is awesome. And her staff is great as well. God bless them all.❤️❤️
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
Time to results unknown
Antigen Test
Rapid
Results in 15 min
$150

AVAILABLE TIMES

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1045 S 320th St, Federal Way, WA 980031045 S 320th St
Open until 5:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
Alpha Male and La Fleur, Health and Testosterone Clinic and Weight Loss Clinic Telemed - 1045 S 320th St

AVAILABLE TIMES

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COVID-19 Testing FAQs

  • How much does COVID testing cost in Snoqualmie?

    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 Snoqualmie?

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

    COVID testing is available at many outlets near Snoqualmie 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 Snoqualmie?

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

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

    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 Snoqualmie?

    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)

I just got a drive-in covid test. I don't understand why they made us fill out a form which I already filled out online.

- Verified patient on 10/18

The covid testing peeps were Awesome! Both Grace and the man were very personable and friendly...they made this scary time, not so scary...will recommend them to everyone, but in hopes they don't have to use Them! 🤓😉🙂

- Verified patient on 10/19

It was my 11th time getting a Covid test. I am not exaggerating. Thank you.

- Verified patient on 12/3

I went for a Covid test, friendly pleasant man processed me thru. I never got an email, text or call with the result. After 4 days I created an acct and got the result. Last time I got a call within 48 hrs.

- Verified patient on 11/1

Used the drive they COVID test station. Was fine, but online registration / check in system could use some improvement. I arrived 10 minutes early waited for 20 minutes past my appointment before I asked a staffer who informed me no spot necessary, just drive up and they take you in order of arrival. Could have been there first thing this morning if it was better explained.

- Verified patient on 10/7

I had two Covid tests at SVH. The process was efficient and quick- a well organized operation. I truly appreciated the phone calls that I received about my test results. I especially appreciate Dr. Rubin for taking so much time talking with me about what to do now that I have tested positive and the follow up email. This was very reassuring.

- Verified patient on 8/25

My daughter had her 1st covid test here. The nurse, Grace, was amazing. She made it an easy 1st experience for my very nervous daughter. Thank you so very much Grace ❤️

- Verified patient on 8/1

Visited SVH for a covid test and two vaccines. Each time the wait was non-existent and every person I interacted with was genuinely pleasant.

- Verified patient on 5/17

I needed a COVID test and it was easy and convenient to schedule an appointment to get tested for COVID-19. Thank you!

- Verified patient on 10/19

Booking online was easy and convenient. Drive thru Covid testing was very quick and efficient as well.

- Verified patient on 11/16

I do the drive up covid test. Fourth time now. Each person administering the test was awesome! Friendly and efficient. I’m in and out in about five minutes👍

- Verified patient on 12/10

Arrived on time for my Covid testing appointment. Had to wait a short time because of computer problems with the pre filed registration information. Staff members handled the crisis with hand filled forms, fixing the backup. and quickly and efficiently resuming the testing. Well Done!

- Verified patient on 10/19

I came for a COVID test as I had a few of the symptoms. No wait time, clear guidance and professional, friendly staff. Thank you so much. Healthcare professionals are on the front lines every day in battling this public health crisis. The rest of us need to do our part.

- Verified patient on 8/25

It was easy to schedule my COVID test and to schedule a tele visit with a practitioner. They called me to report my COVID test results. How can I get a printed copy of it?

- Verified patient on 11/20

The guy that performed my COVID test at snoqualmie medical clinic was amazing, made me super comfortable and not scared. I didn’t get his name :( Thankful for all the medical staff and why they do!

- Verified patient on 8/12

I had to get a covid test and it didn’t even have to leave my car! In and out in a few minutes and friendly nurses!

- Verified patient on 11/4

Have not used a lot of the hospital services. Dr. visits and COVID testing only so far. Pleased with each visit.

- Verified patient on 11/10

Had to get a COVID test for myself and my 14 month old due to an exposure. The staff was super busy all day and was still so friendly and helpful. They were very engaged with my daughter and managed to take her sample thoroughly but quick enough that she didn’t even cry. Super convenient and positive experience!

- Verified patient on 8/11

Visited for a COVID test. Got in before my scheduled appointment. Providers were clear, efficient, and so very kind.

- Verified patient on 12/14

We have come to rely on SVH to provide our Covid testing and vaccination care. They are incredibly professional, organized and best of all, kind. Thank you for taking care of your Valley residents!!

- Verified patient on 11/2

Snoqualmie 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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