What is a rapid COVID test?
We are rapid testing with Abbott's ID NOW™ molecular test. It is the fastest molecular point-of-care rapid test available today. The ID NOW test delivers results in minutes, reducing the spread of infection by detecting more positive results than would otherwise be found. The ID NOW test, along with most of the COVID tests available today, is primarily designed for patients presenting with symptoms.
What type of test does The Urgency Room offer?
No. Our test is a molecular NAAT (nucleic acid amplification) test. Molecular and PCR tests can very similar and many institutions consider the two types interchangeable, including the Minnesota Department of Health. If you are seeking a COVID test for travel and/or other needs please verify the testing requirements with the institution.
Typically, there are two types of tests for COVID-19: viral testing and antibody testing. Viral tests determine if you currently have an infection while antibody tests determine if you have had the virus previously. There are 2 common types of viral tests: molecular and antigen. Molecular tests are the most sensitive, as they look for the viral DNA, whereas antigen tests look for surface markers. Our ID NOW test is an NAAT (nucleic acid amplification) test.
The ID NOW test was designed to be used in “point of care” environments and ideal for places like The Urgency Room, where samples are not transported offsite, are run immediately, and patients are not staying for long periods of time. The goal is to provide highly accurate, rapid testing to identity infection quickly and in-turn, reduce the spread.
How do you sign up for rapid COVID testing?
We offer same day on demand testing as well as scheduled testing. You can schedule a clinic appointment or an online video visit. All appointments require you to go to The Urgency Room to conduct the test itself.
How do I cancel my appointment?
To cancel your appointment please contact the clinic you were scheduled during regular business hours (8:00am to 10:00pm). Notifying us of your cancelation timely allows us to open your appointment up to other patients.
Can you walk-in for COVID testing?
We are not offering walk-in COVID testing at times.
Why do you have to visit the clinic after a video visit?
After you have completed your video visit, you must visit the clinic to conduct the actual test itself. The wait will be minimal as you will administer the test yourself and you will not have to wait for the results. You will be contacted soon as your results are available.
How many tests are available each day?
Our daily testing capacity depends on test availability. The number of tests we receive each week varies; therefore we are scheduling what we have received. We do not have an unlimited supply but we are doing our best to continue to service the high community demand for rapid testing.
Are there other options for a test?
Please check the Minnesota Department of Health's website for the latest on testing locations across Minnesota. We are all working together to meet the high demand.
Can you sign up for more than one test?
You can request more than one test for people in the same family and household based on test availability. You may not request tests for friends or significant others.
What happens when you show up for your rapid COVID test?
Let the front desk staff know you have a rapid test scheduled. You will be registered and will either be shown to a patient room or a restroom to conduct your test as soon as a room is available. ***please note: because we are a walk-in medical facility, you may wait longer than your scheduled time for your test if our providers are caring for other more urgent or emergent patients. We are doing our best to be with you as quickly as we can. We appreciate your patience.
Can you drive up for COVID testing?
We do not offer any form of drive-through testing at this time.
Is COVID testing covered by your insurance?
We recommend you check with your individual insurance carrier on your testing coverage but we will bill any active insurance for COVID testing but do not call to verify individual benefit coverage. At The Urgency Room you will also see a provider. Coverage for the test and visit will depend on your individual insurance and plan. The estimated charge for COVID testing for patients without insurance is $225.00. Additional charges could apply based on symptoms and treatment.
When can I return to work/school after my rapid COVID test?
Return to work and school requirements vary with each employer and institution. We are following the CDC guidelines and are encouraging our patients with both positive and negative results to refer to their website: CDC Guidance on Returning to Work
What is the accuracy of the Rapid ID NOW COVID test and what about false negatives?
Abbot states that various studies are demonstrating ID NOW COVID molecular test performance is between ≥94.7% and ≥98.6% agreement. At The Urgency Room, you’ll be tested for COVID and assessed by a doctor for your unique situation; a provider will talk with you about your plan including the plan in the case of a false negative.
As mentioned, The ID NOW test, along with most of the COVID tests available today, is primarily designed for patients presenting with symptoms.
Are antibody tests available?
No, at this time we are not conducting antibody tests at The Urgency Room.
Still Have Questions About COVID Testing?
Send us a message and we'll get back to you! Messages are returned within one business day, from 10am to 9pm, Monday through Friday. Messages are not monitored on the weekends but we will follow up with you at the start of the next business week.