COVID Testing Specialist

What is COVID testing?

COVID testing is a group of laboratory screens that diagnose COVID-19 or the novel coronavirus. There are several types of tests, but all follow the same basic procedure –– your provider takes a sample of blood, saliva, or mucus, and sends it to the on-site laboratory for analysis.

If you’re currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, or you think you may have had COVID in the past, testing can provide an official diagnosis.

What are the types of COVID testing?

At South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center, the team offers several types of rapid COVID testing, including:

Rapid polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) testing

A PCR test analyzes a sample of your bodily fluids for the presence of viral genes. During a PCR test, your provider swabs your nose or the back of your throat to collect a sample of mucus or saliva. PCR results can be obtained in as little as thirty minutes.

Rapid antigen testing

An antigen test analyzes a throat or nasal swab for the presence of viral markers called antigens. If the technicians at the laboratory discover COVID-19 antigens in your sample, it means you have the novel coronavirus. 

Rapid antibody testing

If you think you’ve caught COVID-19 in the past, the team might recommend antibody testing. During antibody testing, your provider draws a sample of your blood and sends it to the laboratory for analysis. The technicians at the lab analyze your blood for the presence of antibodies –– proteins your immune system creates to fight off viruses or bacteria.

When will I receive the results of COVID testing?

At South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center, the team offers rapid COVID testing with turnaround times of 30 minutes or less. You’ll know if you have the virus and if you’re currently contagious by the time you leave the office.

How accurate is COVID testing?

COVID testing has a proven record of success, but it isn’t 100% accurate. Just like any laboratory test, false positives can happen. If you have questions about the results of your test, don’t hesitate to bring them up during your appointment.

To receive COVID testing, make an appointment at South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.