Information on COVID-19 Testing in El Cajon, CA
We offer the COVID-19 Antibody Serology Blood Test to evaluate your immunity and the Nasal Swab Test to detect if you currently have COVID-19.
The Nasal Swab Test is covered by all major insurances, and we offer the COVID-19 Antibody Blood Test at a self-pay price of $90. Currently, we do not provide the antibody test for insured patients. We are following all public health guidelines for sanitizing our clinic. All visitors must always wear a mask or face covering that covers their mouth and nose while at the clinic.
The COVID-19 Test Process
Please carefully read the below instructions to complete your COVID-19 Swab test.
Our process includes action items you must complete on the day of the test hours before you show up in-person. Please make yourself available between 8:30- 2:30 to complete the following steps. If you fail to complete all steps, you risk cancellation.
1 – Through the “Reserve Your Spot for a COVID-19 Test” button below, select an open time slot.
2 – On the day of your test, our staff will contact you to help you complete your registration and triage.
3 – Next, you will have a virtual visit with our medical provider. The provider will ask you questions about your COVID-19 symptoms and exposure. This virtual visit is REQUIRED before a swab test can be performed in-person. If you do not respond to our medical provider upon being contacted, your test will be canceled.
4 – Show up to the parking lot at the time given by the medical staff. Stay in your car and our medical staff will guide you to the drive-thru swab line.
The COVID-19 Antibody Blood Test
East County Urgent Care is now offering FDA-authorized COVID-19 antibody testing. The antibody test detects antibodies produced in the blood and identifies patients who have been exposed to or recovered from COVID-19. For the most effective results, the antibody test must be conducted a minimum of 10 days after infection or exposure. We will notify you of your test results within 3 days after testing and provide the recommended next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antibody Testing:
Do I need an appointment for the antibody test?
We are a walk-in clinic. Appointments are not necessary, but in order to save time, we recommend that you reserve your walk-in spot online.
What is the COVID-19 antibody test?
The COVID-19 Antibody test is a serological test. Serological tests use serum in blood samples from individuals who are being evaluated for SARS-CoV-2 infection or have been exposed to the virus. These tests for SARS-CoV-2 are intended for individuals who may have had COVID-19 symptoms but are no longer symptomatic. The tests determine the presence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and can help identify if you’ve previously been exposed to COVID-19. Confirmation of infection with SARS-CoV-2 will be made through a combination of clinical evaluation and other applicable tests. Decisions about ongoing monitoring, treatment or return to normal activities for patients being treated for suspected infection with SARS-CoV-2 should also be made in accordance with guidance from public health authorities. These tests have not been reviewed by the FDA but are being offered in accordance with the public health emergency guidance issued by the FDA.
Who can get an antibody test?
Patients interested in receiving an antibody test should be symptom-free for a minimum of 10 days or have never experienced any COVID-19 symptoms at all.
Do I need a prescription from a doctor to get the antibody test?
Currently, we are only conducting the antibody test to cash patients. If you have insurance, you must go to your primary care physician and get tested at a LabCorp or Quest draw station.
Does the antibody test determine if I currently have COVID-19?
No. The nasal swab test will determine if you are currently in the active phase for COVID-19.
How much is an antibody test?
The antibody blood test is offered at a self-pay price of $90. We do not offer this service to insured patients.
What is the process for getting the antibody blood test?
You need to fill out a registration form and our medical staff will screen you. They will check your temperature and ask you a few questions. Then, your blood will be drawn for the test.
What if I have COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever, cough or runny nose?
If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, the nasal swab test is the most definitive testing option for you. Our medical provider will see you first and let you know what kind of test is most appropriate for you.
How long will it take to get the results?
We will contact you and inform you of the results in 3 days.
What if the test results are negative?
A negative serologic test result means that COVID-19 antibodies were not found in your sample. This may occur if you are tested too early in your illness and your body hasn’t had time to produce antibodies to the infection. False negative results are also possible in some people with a prior COVID-19 infection. This means that you could possibly still have COVID-19 even though the test is negative. If this is the case, our healthcare provider will consider the test results together with all other aspects of your medical history in deciding how to care for you.
What if the test results are positive?
A positive serologic test result indicates that you have likely been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and produced an immune response. There is also a chance that this test can provide a false positive. The antibody test is more about surveillance monitoring and possible immunity.
Our healthcare provider will work to determine an individualized care plan for you based on the test results along with other factors in your medical history.
Does a positive IgG mean I am immune?
No. As of now, there is no evidence that a positive IgG test result means you are immune and will not contract the virus in the future.
For more information visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.
