COVID-19 Rapid Molecular & Rapid Antigen Testing FAQ

Q: How does the COVID-19 rapid test process work at AFC urgent care?

A: Getting your rapid test is a quick & easy process. At AFC, we offer two types of Rapid Tests: Rapid molecular test and Rapid Antigen Test:

No Appointment is needed but if you would like to save your space in line you can register from the home page of our website and select “schedule appointment”

1. On the day of your rapid test please make sure you have insurance and ID ready and register at the front desk. If you are uninsured you must provide your social security number and ID. If you have registered online then please go to the front desk and notify them of your arrival.
2. An AFC provider will perform and evaluation and a staff member will perform the test.
3. Results will be provided shortly as soon as they are available, usually within +/- 15 minutes
4. Please note there is limited availability per hour and you may experience a wait depending on the number of people requesting testing.

Q: What if my family or more than 1 person needs a rapid test?

A: You must register for each family member who needs a rapid test so that we can register each person in our system separately.

Q: What if I would like to have my rapid test on a specific day?

A: Come in or schedule an appointment on the day you would like to be tested.

Q: Why is there a limited number of tests per day?

A: We have limited supply of rapid tests in each center which is why we have limited the number of tests that can be scheduled for the day.

Q: I am traveling and need my results asap!

A: Please check with the airline you are traveling on or the country (location) you are traveling to ensure if a Rapid Molecular test, Rapid Antigen Test or a PCR test is needed. (Please note PCR tests sent to lab, results are generally provided within 72 hours)

For more information and reference on the which test may be needed you can visit this website for specific information related to Covid-19 requirements in that specific country: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/COVID-19-Country-Specific-Information.html

*Please Note - It is your responsibility to verify the correct test needed for your trip

Q: How much does rapid testing cost?

A: Currently most insurances are covering the cost of testing BUT this is based on the type of plan you may have and any recent updates insurance carriers may make. If you have out of state Insurance, your insurance may not be accepted and you may incur a charge that you may be able to get reimbursed. The cost of the Rapid test is $150. We will provide a receipt in such an event.

Q: What if I do not have insurance?

A: Previously the federal government covered the cost of testing for uninsured individuals. At this time funds have been depleted and the program has expired. The out of pocket expense for testing is $150

Q: Can I pay out of pocket for a rapid test?

A: Yes you can, the cost is $150

Q: How does the Rapid Molecular Test work?

A: We have partnered with Abbott Labs using their ID Now diagnostic system, the Gold Standard in rapid testing utilized by the federal government. Abbott Labs is a leading FDA approved laboratory, with emergency use authorization from the FDA to administer the COVID-19 Rapid test. The ID NOW is a lightweight and portable instrument (the size of a toaster), a molecular test which detects genetic material, and allows testing to occur on-site in order to get rapid results. The ID NOW system processes a specimen quickly, which enables us to get you your results delivered to you within +/-15 minutes.

Q: How does the Rapid Antigen Test work?

A: We have partnered with Sienna-Clarity using their diagnostic system. Sienna-Clarity is a leading FDA approved laboratory, with emergency use authorization from the FDA to administer the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test. The Sienna-Clarity is a lightweight and portable instrument (the size of a toaster), an antigen test which detects genetic material, and allows testing to occur on-site in order to get rapid results. The Sienna-Clarity system processes a specimen quickly, which enables us to get you your results delivered to you within +/-15 minutes.

Q: What is the Sienna-Clarity COVID-19Antigen test?

A: The Sienna-Clarity COVID-19 Antigen is a type of test called an antigen test. Antigen tests are designed to detect proteins from the virus that causes COVID-19 in nasopharyngeal swabs. The presence of viral proteins indicate you may have been infected with the virus and are likely to be contagious.

Q: Is the Rapid molecular and Rapid antigen tests a nasal swab test?

A: Yes. It is a non-invasive sample taken from the lower area of the nasal canal and we are as gentle as possible!

Q: Is the Abbott ID Now Rapid Molecular test a NAAT test?

A: Yes. A Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, or NAAT, is a type of viral diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2.

Q: How long will it take to get results?

A: You won’t have to wait long for results. Once your test is complete you will be provided a hard copy of your results within +/- 15 minutes.

Q: Can I get the rapid molecular test even if I am asymptomatic?

A: Yes, you do not need to be displaying symptoms in order to be tested or to get accurate results. If you have been exposed it is highly recommended you wait a minimum of 48-72 hours or longer for an accurate determination.

Q: How effective are the results of the rapid test?

A: The rapid tests are utilized by the federal government, many agencies, the airline industry, schools and many institutions as a highly effective means of testing for Covid-19.

Q: If I get the rapid test do I still need to wear a mask, wash hands often and social distance?

A: A negative result is not a free get out of jail card, and does not discount you from maintaining safety precautions, as the test results are only effective up until the time of testing. Please continue to take normal precautions following the test and follow the CDC guidelines.

Q: Are these COVID-19 rapid tests sufficient to use as proof of a negative test for employers and schools?

A: Many employers and schools have backed the Abbott ID Now and the Rapid Antigen tests as the system of choice but we recommend checking with your employer, school or agency.

• AFC urgent care reserves the right to update this information as new information emerges.