Understanding the various COVID tests available helps you make informed decisions about your health. Different tests serve different purposes, from detecting a current infection to identifying a past one. As guidelines evolve, knowing which test aligns with your needs provides clarity. Here is more information on the types of COVID testing you may encounter:
Walk-in Tests
Walk-in testing facilities provide a convenient option for many individuals, and they typically do not require a prior appointment. Because they are designed for accessibility, these sites may be located in local primary care clinics. You arrive during operating hours to get tested.
Many walk-in COVID testing sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, which makes them a practical choice for same-day testing. They are typically simple to use and give clear instructions. While walk-in tests are convenient, you may experience longer wait times during peak hours, especially in areas with high demand.
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic tests are standard types of testing that determine if you have an active COVID infection. The two categories of diagnostic tests are molecular tests, such as PCR tests, and antigen tests. Molecular tests detect the virus’s genetic material, and antigen tests detect specific proteins from the virus.
Molecular tests are highly sensitive, which makes them very accurate for detecting an active infection. A healthcare provider collects a sample using a swab, and it is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results from these tests may take anywhere from one day to several days, depending on the lab’s capacity and your location.
Antigen tests, or rapid tests, provide results much faster, typically within minutes. You can have an antigen test performed at a testing site, or you can purchase at-home kits to perform the test yourself. While they are less sensitive than molecular tests, they are a practical tool for quick screening, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of the virus.
Antibody Tests
Antibody tests search for antibodies in your blood that your body makes in response to a previous COVID infection. A blood sample is required for this test, so a healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm or from a finger prick. These tests are not designed to diagnose a current infection; instead, they indicate if you have been exposed to the virus in the past.
Antibody tests can be helpful in understanding the spread of the virus within a community. They are relatively quick to administer, but they should always be conducted under the guidance of trained medical professionals. While these tests can show past exposure to COVID, they do not guarantee immunity, and further precautions may still be necessary.
Schedule COVID Testing Today
Making a decision about testing is a significant health choice, and having the right information supports that process. Whether you need to confirm a current infection or learn about a past one, various testing methods are available to meet your specific circumstances. Clinics offer accessible testing options to help you get the answers you need. Contact a primary care clinic to schedule your COVID test.
