It is a test that can detect proteins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19, in nasopharyngeal swabs from patients with signs and symptoms who are suspected of COVID-19. A positive Antigen test indicates that a person has an active infection.

Rapid Antigen tests detect antigens, which are pieces of proteins of the coronavirus. Rapid tests are not as sensitive as PCR tests in detecting an active infection. However, Rapid Antigen tests provide results faster than PCR.

PCR tests detect the coronavirus genetic material, and the PCR specimens have to be taken to a lab. PCR results come back typically within 48-72 hours.

It all depends on your purpose behind getting tested, but here are some points:

• If you are symptomatic and looking for results on the same day, a Rapid Antigen test may be better suited for you. Rapid Antigen testing is more accurate at detecting the virus if you are symptomatic.

Rapid Antigen tests are available as (nasal or nasopharyngeal swabs)

• If you are asymptomatic or need the test for travelling (some countries require PCR), a PCR test may be a better option for you. PCR testing is more accurate at detecting the virus if the test is taken 72 hours after exposure.

PCR tests are available as (nasopharyngeal swabs or saliva tubes)

Results are for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen. This antigen is generally detectable in upper respiratory samples during the acute phase of infection. 

Positive results indicate the presence of viral antigens, but clinical correlation with patient history and other diagnostic information is necessary to determine infection status. Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses.

Negative results should be treated as presumptive, do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions, including infection control decisions. Negative results should be considered in the context of a patient’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19, and confirmed with a PCR test, if necessary, for patient management.

Results will be texted within 2 hours of your testing. Please note that we do not charge an administrative fee for same day result texting. We also kindly ask you to contact us in case you do not receive your result via text message on time.

We cannot guarantee that your insurance will pay. However, in our claims experience, as of today, insurances have been paying if you meet the above criteria. Although, you will be responsible for any uncovered amounts. Please provide your medical insurance card(s) to staff.

As of March 22, 2022, the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program has stopped accepting claims for testing. The Federal Government will no longer pay for uninsured.

If you are getting tested for general screening purposes:  full payment of $105 will be due prior to specimen collection.

For in-person payment, cash is preferred.

The cost for a Rapid Antigen test is $105.

No. This test is not yet approved or cleared by the United States FDA. When there are no FDA approved or cleared tests available, and other criteria are met, FDA can make tests available under an emergency access mechanism called an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).