COVID-19 Molecular Testing FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Testing

We appreciate your visit and we are working to ensure your safety during this pandemic by taking precautions and other safety measures at our Clinic. Below are some questions people are asking about COVID-19 Testing. For more information, Call us now.

Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Testing
Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Testing

Table of Contents:

What COVID tests are you offering?
Are the tests FDA authorized?
Are they nasal swabs?
Are they antigen test?
Are these tests approved for travel?
Will the test results be reported to the county health department?

How soon after a suspected exposure should a person be tested?
Is there any age requirement?
I don’t have a reservation. Can I walk-in?
Where do you perform the test?
What is the difference between the tests?

What COVID tests are you offering?


The tests available at East County Urgent Care are Rapid COVID-19 Molecular Test and COVID19 Molecular PCR Test.

Are the tests FDA authorized?


Yes.

Are they nasal swabs?


Yes, both of them are nasal swabs. Our medical team will insert the tip of the cotton swab into both nostrils. The swab does not need to be inserted far, just until the cotton tip of the swab is no longer visible. The swab is then rotated in a circle around the entire inside edge of each nostril three times.

Are they antigen test?


No. Antigen test is less accurate, and we do not offer it.

Are these tests approved for travel?


Most international travel requires a PCR within 72 hours. We recommended that you get the PCR just if the state or country does not accept the rapid test. We recommended you confirm with the airline or airport which test is required.

Will the test results be reported to the county health department?


We are required to report all positive test results.

How soon after a suspected exposure should a person be tested?


3-5 days. Always consult your primary care physician before testing.

Is there any age requirement?


No.

I don’t have a reservation. Can I walk-in?


Please make a reservation. If you are walk-in, you may have to wait for a very long time.

Where do you perform the test?


In your vehicle.

What is the difference between the tests?


The molecular PCR test is 99% accurate with or without symptoms. We send the specimen the same day to the laboratory. Results come back between 3-10 days. The rapid Molecular test is 95% accurate without symptoms and 98% accurate with symptoms. Test results are available in approximately 1 hour. The specimen is processed in house.