RT-PCR TESTING FOR SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19)
- Rapid Results (24-48 Hours Upon Receipt)
- CAP Accredited Lab
- 99.9% Accuracy
- FDA/ EUA Authorized Testing
WHY YOU SHOULD GET TESTED FOR COVID-19
Fever
Cough
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Death
Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions and older adults (aged 60 years and over) face a higher risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19.
If you have been in contact with someone infected with COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory infection, it is crucial to undergo COVID-19 testing promptly. Early testing helps in receiving timely treatment and reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others in your community.
PCR VS. ANTIGEN
A PCR-based molecular COVID test is capable of detecting even tiny amounts of virus in the body, making it a highly sensitive testing method. RT-PCR COVID testing is widely regarded as the gold standard for accuracy throughout the course of infection.
RT-PCR
A rapid antigen test detects the presence of a foreign substance in your body, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which triggers an immune response. Rapid antigen tests provide fast results with high accuracy, especially when conducted early in an infection, although there is a small chance of a false negative result.
What test is best for me?
In the early stages of a COVID-19 infection, the viral load in the upper respiratory tract can be low, which may result in a negative antigen test. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests, on the other hand, are highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of the virus’s genetic material. This makes PCR testing more reliable, especially for early diagnosis when viral levels are minimal. PCR tests amplify and detect specific segments of the virus’s genetic material, providing accurate results and aiding in timely treatment and containment efforts.
THE TESTING PROCESS
- 1. Sample Collection: A painless lower nasal swab is collected and placed in a vial containing stabilization fluid. The vial is labeled with your patient information to ensure accurate processing.
- 2. Laboratory Analysis: The specimen is shipped to our laboratory, where it undergoes state-of-the-art PCR testing. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a highly sensitive method that detects genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus with 99% accuracy. Our testing is performed by trained scientists who adhere to rigorous protocols to ensure reliable results.
** We provide the convenience of an at-home self-testing kit, allowing you to collect your sample in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
GETTING YOUR RESULTS
You will receive your official laboratory report via email, text, or our web-based portal within 24-48 hours after your sample arrives at our laboratory. This report is crucial for reviewing with your physician.
BILLING POLICY
Innovative Gx will perform the test as an authorized testing facility. This member cost-sharing waiver applies to all Commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid lines of business. The policy aligns with new Families First legislation and regulations requiring all health plans to provide coverage of COVID-19 testing without cost-share. The requirement also applies to self-insured plans or uninsured, covered by the Care Act. Per guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Labor, and the Department of the Treasury, all Commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare plans must cover COVID-19 testing with no cost-sharing.
This requirement extends to self-insured plans and uninsured individuals covered by the Care Act. As per guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Labor, and the Department of the Treasury, all Commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare plans are mandated to cover COVID-19 testing without any cost-sharing.
ABOUT AUGUSTUS LABORATORIES
At Augustus Laboratories, we specialize in cutting-edge precision medicine solutions tailored for physicians, hospitals, corporations, and managed care organizations. We pride ourselves on delivering rapid results, including same-day turnaround for a comprehensive array of molecular infectious disease testing, including COVID-19. Additionally, we provide advanced pharmacogenomic and genetic testing services to support personalized healthcare strategies.
