Laguna Beach Urgent Care

What to Look for in A Rapid Covid-19 Test

Posted on Mar 23, 2022 in COVID-19 Test | No Comments

What to Look for in A Rapid Covid-19 Test

The rise of Covid-19 testing options has made getting Covid-19 testing much more accessible and affordable. It’s important to remember, however, that not all testing options are created equal. There can be a huge variance between the accuracy, processing time, and reliability of rapid covid testing, so it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re doing your research and getting the best testing option available to you.

Tips to keep in mind when searching for your next Covid-19 rapid test.

1. The first and most important thing to consider when getting your Covid-19 test is accuracy. We’ve all heard about people getting both false negatives and false positives when it comes to Covid-19, so it’s important to look into the accuracy rates of the specific test you’re getting. While a rapid PCR test might be a bit more expensive, the higher accuracy rates will give you a better chance at getting a true reading- something which is particularly important if you’re testing due to potential exposure. So always make sure to check in regarding the accuracy rates of the test you’ve chosen.

2. Processing times are another major factor to consider. If you need your test to be guaranteed within a specific timeframe, then rapid covid testing is definitely the way to go. If you’re simply doing regular testing before an event, or for work purposes, then it might not be as necessary to splurge on a speedy result. Either way, make sure you always check in beforehand about processing times so that you have a guarantee for the latest date your test will be returned to you.

3. The final consideration to take into account is the reliability that your test has been done in a thorough and accurate manner. The drawback of at-home testing kits is that they are normally done by non-medical professionals, meaning you or your family member, and can therefore mean that human error might lead to an inaccurate result. By going to a registered testing facility, you’re minimizing the risk of inaccurate results, and your test will in turn be much more reliable.

Surfside Urgent Care of Laguna Beach

If you’re looking for expert Covid-19 testing services, come pay us a visit at Surfside Urgent Care. Our expert medical professionals will work with you to determine which option amongst our range of Covid-19 tests is the best fit for your needs. If you have any questions about rapid covid testing or our other urgent care services, give us a call today and let us support your medical needs!