Who should be tested by Molecular PCR?
This test is recommended for anyone that has symptoms for COVID-19, anyone that has been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of Covid-19, anyone that has taken part in activities that put them at risk for Covid-19 such as travel, attending large gatherings, etc and/or anyone who has been referred for testing by their healthcare provider.
What is a Molecular PCR test?
PCR testing is used to detect the presence of an “antigen,” rather than the presence of “antibodies” created by a person’s immune response to a virus. By identifying viral RNA, which is present before antibodies or symptoms begin to develop, PCR tests tell us whether or not someone has the virus very early on. We recommend that each antibody test be complimented with a molecular PCR test.
Will MyLabsDirect bill insurance for my COVID-19 tests?
Yes, we will happily bill insurance if you are experiencing symptoms, have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of Covid-19, or have been referred for testing by a healthcare provider.
What happens when I get to my appointment?
While all testing sites vary, when you arrive, call or text us at 877-355-7978 when you arrive. You will remain in your car – a member of our team will collect your specimen carside and send you on your way.
How long does it take to have my specimen taken?
A typical session takes roughly 10 minutes.
Can I swab myself?
Yes, but only while under the direct supervision of one of our trained staff members.
May I test anonymously?
No, per state and federal guidelines, all Covid-19 testing laboratories must collect your full first and last name, date of birth, gender, phone number, physical address, ethnicity and race.
Why do I need to be tested if I’m vaccinated?
The Covid-19 vaccines have been proven to reduce the likelihood of severe symptoms and death, however, they do not prevent you from becoming sick with Covid-19 or from spreading Covid-19 to others.
What is the difference between antigen, rt-PCR, and antibody tests?
A diagnostic test tells you if you have a current infection. Antigen tests and rt-PCR tests are both diagnostic tests. Antigen tests diagnose Covid-19 by detecting the presence of a protein in the virus. Both of these tests types are collected via nasal swabbing. The rt-PCR test diagnoses Covid-19 by detecting the presence of the nucleic acid of the virus and is considered the “gold standard” diagnostic test for Covid-19. An antibody test (also known as a serology test) might tell you if you had a past infection. Antibody tests are collected via blood draw and should not be used to diagnose a current infection
Who should be tested for antibodies?
Those that were previously sick, but tested negative with other tests, those that speculate that they are asymptomatic carriers, and those that came in contact with someone that was infected by the COVID -19 virus.
What is a total antibody test?
A total antibody test measures the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies found in the blood. These antibodies develop when an individual is infected with a virus. The body first produces IgM antibodies as an initial line of defense to protect against infection. IgM then transfers to IgG to kill the virus and to protect against future infection.
Is the Covid-19 Antibody test offered by MyLabsDirect FDA authorized?
We offer one of the only tests available in the US recognized by the FDA under emergency use authorization for detecting antibodies against the virus that causes COVID-19. This test was developed by Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics and received its CE Mark by delivering both 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity.