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What Type of Test Is Right For Me?
There are multiple types of tests used to detect COVID-19. The three primary tests offered at testing sites are outlined below. When in doubt, contact your primary care or call the Prince George’s County Coronavirus Hotline at 301-883-6627 and they will recommend a test based on your specific circumstances.
PCR or Molecular Amplification Diagnostic
- Detects genetic material from COVID-19 virus
- Detects ACTIVE COVID-19 infection
- Best test for highly accurate diagnosis of individual COVID-19 infection
- Samples taken via nasal or throat swab. RESULTS AVAILABLE IN 1 DAY (results by end of day AFTER testing)
- Detects active infection
- Results in 24-36 hours
- Fits the requirements for travel testing and pre-surgical clearance
Only the Diagnostic (PCR) test should be used to discontinue self-isolation. This is the test that is often required for international port entry, medical clearance and return to work and school
RAPID Antigen
- Shows presumptive ACTIVE COVID-19 infection but may be less sensitive than a PCR test
- Samples taken via nasal swab
- RESULTS AVAILABLE IN 15-20 MINUTES
- Detects active infection
- Fits the requirements for travel** and pre-surgical clearance
This test is best used for potential exposure due to its lower cost and faster results. If you test negative for the Rapid test but are still displaying symptoms, you may be required to also have a negative PCR test before resuming school or work.
** Acceptable for travel to SOME international locations. Please confirm with the ministry of health your intended destination!
1-HOUR Rapid Molecular Testing
- Detects ACTIVE COVID-19 infection
- Results in 1 HOUR!!
- Samples taken via direct anterior nasal (nasal), nasopharyngeal or throat swab
- Rapid molecular in vitro diagnostic test utilizing an isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology (NAAT) intended for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from the SARS-CoV-2 virus
- Good for Travel - Confirm with officials at your destination
COVID Screening
Please Seek IMMEDIATE Medical Attention if You Have Any of These Life-Threatening Symptoms:
- Bluish lips or face
- Severe and constant pain or pressure in the chest
- Extreme difficulty breathing (such as gasping for air, being unable to talk without catching your breath, severe wheezing, nostrils flaring)
- New disorientation (acting confused)
- Unconscious or very difficult to wake up
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking (new or worsening)
- New or worsening seizures
- Signs of low blood pressure (too weak to stand, dizziness, lightheaded, feeling cold, pale, clammy skin)
- Dehydration (dry lips and mouth, not urinating much, sunken eyes)
- Are you feeling sick?
COVID Screening Questions
- In the last two weeks, have you been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19? —excluding people who have had COVID-19 within the past 3 months
- In the last two weeks, have you worked or volunteered in a healthcare facility or as a first responder? Healthcare facilities include a hospital, other medical setting (including dental care setting), long-term care facility, or nursing home
- Do you live in a group home or other setting with others (pediatric skilled nursing facility, behavioral health center, juvenile detention center, or homeless shelter)?
- In the last two weeks, have you attended or spent time in a group setting (for example school, dormitory, child care, sporting event)?
FAQs
No doctor’s notes are required for testing
No symptoms are necessary to be tested
Yes! We accept insurance payments from clients with OUT OF NETWORK benefits. Insurance benefits will be verified at the time of booking. Receipts are available by request after testing is completed. These can be submitted to insurance for reimbursement.
Our tests are for any person (adult or child), whether they have symptoms or not. The rapid PCR test is valid for international travel, medical clearances and return to work and school.
A sample of respiratory fluid is taken via mid-turbinate nasal swab. The test takes just a few seconds and discomfort is minimal.
Yes, our testing protocol aligns with the CDC screening guidelines for travel and most international travel requirements
Yes, our testing protocol aligns with the CDC screening guidelines
To determine your current COVID risk, please use the CDC Coronavirus Self Checker https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/diagnostic-testing.html#who-should-get-tested
Symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Fever or feeling feverish (such as chills, sweating)
- Cough
- Mild or moderate shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches or body aches
- Headache
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- New loss of taste or smell
- Congestion or runny nose
- Other symptoms