Q.  How is this different than the COVID nasal swab?

            A.   The Antibody Test can tell you if you have ever had or could currently have infection. The nasal swab can only show you if you actively have the virus. It cannot tell you if you had the virus in the past.  After the antibody test you will know if you’ve ever been exposed, and if so, the relative time-frame of exposure. This gives an indicator of potential immunity!

Q.  How does the test work?

            A. A few drops of blood are needed from a simple finger prick.

Q. How long will I wait to get my results?

            A. 15 minutes

Q.  How reliable is the test? Is it FDA approved?

            A.  The process of official FDA approval can take several years for completion. Due to the nation-wide state of emergency, the FDA has shortcutted to clear the testing without marking it as “approved.” These tests have official “FDA-Clearance,” with Title IV Validation as of March 16th. They’ve tested it at nearly 98% sensitivity, meaning it’s very accurate - even moreso than the common flu swab, which is 70% sensitivity!

Q.  What’s the cost of the test?

            A.  Testing at the clinic is $105/person, while group testing at your place of business is discounted to $75/person. We can accommodate groups of 5 to 500+. Have your employer call today to preorder the tests and set up a time for your business/employees to be tested!

Q.  Will my insurance cover this?

            A.  Yes, generally so at the clinic utilizing your insurance. Employers wanting to test their staff should check with individual carriers.  These charges are usually paid by owners through the HR departments. The government has mandated to insurance companies that COVID testing is to be covered for individuals at healthcare facilities.

Q. What results will show up?

            A.  The test will show either the presence or absence of 2 types of antibodies in your system. IgM antibodies, which tell of active or recent infection, and IgG antibodies, which tell of past infection and hopefully some degree of immunity.

Q.  If I have presence of antibodies, does that mean I’m immune?

            A. Not necessarily. You may be able to get the virus again, but any reinfection would likely cause less symptoms. Cases of reinfection are uncommon but have been reported, and you could still passing the virus on to others during the second go around.

Q. Can I get the COVID virus again?

A.  Unlikely.  It is felt that the antibodies you make may protect you somewhat for 2 to 3 years. We hope you have some immunity!  There isn’t quite enough data yet know for sure.

Q.  My IgM test is positive, but I haven’t had any symptoms. What does this mean?

            A.  It means you could have been exposed to the virus recently- in the last several weeks, including even a few days ago. If this antibody shows up, it is best to then take the nasal swab test to see if you are actively carrying the virus and to self-quarantine until the results return (this usually takes 3-5 days).  You will be monitored every 2 days by our telehealth system and should notify us immediately if any symptoms begin.