The COVID-19 PCR test is billed to your insurance by the outside lab and results are typically available in 2-4 days. There is a $39 collection charge for insured patients. Self-pay price is $139 to cover the lab fee.
A Quidel Rapid Antigen COVID-19 test (results in 15 minutes) is available for $100.
Key Information About the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) for Our Patients in Tampa, FL
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we understand that many people in our community are concerned about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. To help keep you informed and prepared, we offer the following answers to some frequently asked questions:
How Do You Know If You Have COVID-19?
The most common COVID-19 symptoms are:
- Persistent coughing
- Fever
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- New loss of taste or smell
It is important to note that the symptoms of the novel coronavirus can be very similar to the symptoms of seasonal influenza, and most people who experience flu-like symptoms do not have COVID-19. Therefore, the first step in the diagnostic process is to attempt to rule out the flu.
Some health care professionals offer telehealth services for this purpose. During a virtual consultation, you can be prescreened for the novel coronavirus and receive individualized advice from an expert—all while never leaving the safety and comfort of your home. If influenza is ruled out, you may be advised to register for a COVID-19 test at a certified testing center.
Usually, COVID-19 testing involves a simple nasopharyngeal swab, which is a method of collecting a sample of nasal secretions from the back of your nose and throat. The sample is then sent to a lab for evaluation by a pathologist.
What If You Are Diagnosed With COVID-19?
At this time, there is no FDA-approved treatment for the novel coronavirus. To minimize the risk of infecting others, it is imperative that you stay home until a medical professional determines that you have fully recovered and are no longer contagious. In the meantime, you should rest, stay well-hydrated, and promptly report any symptom changes to your medical provider. Severe COVID-19 symptoms such as difficulty breathing may require hospitalization, and while anyone can be affected, certain risk factors such as advanced age can increase the likelihood of developing serious complications of COVID-19.
How Can COVID-19 Be Prevented?
The novel coronavirus spreads mainly from person to person. Whenever an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the COVID-19 virus are released into the air. If you are too close, you may inhale the droplets and become infected.
The best way to prevent COVID-19 is to avoid close contact with others by staying home as much as possible. If you must leave home, it is essential to practice social distancing, which involves maintaining a physical distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and other people. In public places, it can also be helpful to wear a cloth face mask.
Another way you can become infected with COVID-19 is to touch a surface or object that was recently touched by an infected person, and then touch your face. You can destroy viruses on your hands by washing them thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
We Are Here for You
At South Tampa Immediate Care, we know that you may need assistance with other health-related issues during the coronavirus pandemic, and we remain here for you. If you have questions or would like to see a medical provider, contact us or visit our walk-in urgent care center in Tampa, FL, today. To streamline your visit, you can enter our virtual waiting room before you leave home. Or, if you’d like to take advantage of our telemedicine services, request a virtual visit and consult with a provider from the comfort and safety of your own home.
