Rapid (Antigen) Viral Testing
The Rapid (Antigen) viral test uses a nasal/throat swab to detect a current infection of COVID-19 in your body. Best used at least 24-48 hours after onset of symptoms, this test can help you determine if you need any further testing before returning to work, or if you should self-isolate.
HOW'S IT DONE?
The antigen test can be done on a nasopharyngeal swab just like the PCR, but it is more commonly done in a nasal swab. The nasal swab for an antigen test typically stops in the nostril, not the throat. It may feel less invasive but there likely is less virus to be found in that area. Antigen tests are most effective early in the disease when the patient has more of the virus in their body.
Pros:The results are very fast. Antigen tests are highly specific for positive results – if you test positive, you have the virus.
Cons: The results are less sensitive for COVID-19 and therefore have a higher false negative rate (you may test negative but actually have the virus especially for recent exposure). The test is very specific, so if it is positive, you have COVID-19.
Insurance
Due to the cares act, most COVID-19 testing is reimbursable by health insurance. We can help you with reimbursement. PicMed does not accept or file insurance for testing but will help provide documentation to get reimbursed.