All patients must see our physician before receiving COVID-19 (Coronavirus) PCR testing.
COVID-19-related visits include a physician evaluation and a PCR test, which is the most accurate test available. The PCR test is billed to your insurance by the outside lab and results are typically available in 2-4 days.
A Quidel Rapid Antigen COVID-19 test (results in 15 minutes) may be added on the same day as a physician visit for a cash-pay price of $75.
The Rapid Antigen cash-pay price for asymptomatic patients who are uninsured or need testing for travel or employment is $100.
There is a $25 cash-pay price for the blood draw for an Antibody Test. Check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover the lab cost.
Types of COVID Tests We Offer in Tampa, FL
Are you concerned that you might be infected with the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)? If you’re in the Tampa area and you have symptoms such as a dry cough, mild fever, and muscle aches, or if you recently had close contact with someone who was infected with COVID-19, here’s what to do: You should immediately self-isolate and talk with an experienced provider at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, Florida. After discussing your symptoms and circumstances, we’ll let you know whether we think you should receive a COVID-19 test, and if so, suggest the most appropriate type.
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we offer three types of COVID-19 tests:
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing
A PCR test can accurately detect genetic material that is specific to SARS-CoV-2, the new and highly contagious virus that causes COVID-19. Widely considered to be the gold standard in SARS-CoV-2 detection, PCR testing involves a nasopharyngeal swab to collect a sample of nasal secretions from the back of the nose and throat. This relatively simple testing technique is also commonly used to diagnose influenza and other respiratory infections.
After we complete your PCR test, we will send your specimen to a lab for processing. We will contact you as soon as we have your results—typically within 48 to 72 weekday business hours—to discuss your diagnosis and explain your next steps.
COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
A rapid antigen test can detect fragments of proteins that are specific to SARS-CoV-2. Like a PCR test, a rapid antigen test involves a nasal swab. But unlike a PCR test, a rapid antigen can be processed immediately, with results available in approximately 15 minutes. The tradeoff is a degree of accuracy; in general, rapid antigen testing has a lower sensitivity and specificity than PCR testing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you may opt to receive a rapid antigen test in addition to a PCR test.
COVID-19 Antibody Testing
A coronavirus antibody test, which involves a blood draw, can detect certain proteins produced by the body’s immune system in response to a COVID-19 exposure. Antibodies can take several days or weeks to develop and may remain in the blood for several weeks or longer after recovery. Unlike PCR testing and rapid antigen testing, which can detect a current COVID-19 infection, antibody testing can detect a prior COVID-19 infection, which may suggest some level of immunity.
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you may opt to receive antibody testing in addition to PCR testing. Antibody testing needs to take place 14 days post-infection or 14 days after a close-contact exposure.
What if You Are Diagnosed With COVID-19?
Currently, there is no known cure for COVID-19. If you are infected, you should stay home until you have fully recovered and are no longer contagious. During your recovery, you should rest, stay well-hydrated, and promptly report any symptom changes to your medical provider.
If you have questions or would like to receive a COVID-19 test, contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, today.
