The COVID viral test offered at Test 4 Free is the molecular-based rT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) diagnostic panel test.
The rT-PCR COVID-19 viral test was approved under the Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA for detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It’s the most sensitive viral test for COVID-19 and is less likely to provide false negative results.
The COVID viral test at Test 4 Free isn’t an antibody test. It’s a test that checks for an active infection.
Test 4 Free offers no-cost COVID testing for patients of all ages, and it includes people with and without insurance.
There are many types of tests for COVID-19. The rapid test is popular because it provides immediate results. However, the results may not be as accurate as those provided by the viral test offered at Test 4 Free.
The rapid tests check for specific proteins on the surface of the virus. This type of test doesn’t have the same level of sensitivity as the viral test.
When getting tested for COVID-19, it’s important that you get accurate results. A false negative from a rapid test can give you the idea that it’s safe to be around your family, friends, or co-workers, who then could get the virus from you.
The COVID viral test at Test 4 Free is a nasal swab test. During the test, your provider inserts a swap into your nostril and advances to the back of your nose to the nasopharyngeal area.
Your provider rubs and rolls the swab to collect samples of mucus and saliva, and then removes the swab and places it in a tightly sealed container, which is sent to the lab for testing.
For accuracy, your provider at Test 4 Free may perform your nasal test on both nostrils.
Test 4 Free is dedicated to getting you results from your viral test as quickly as possible. They provide details of when you can expect your results at the time of your testing. Typically, the turnaround time for the viral test is 2-3 days.
While waiting for your test results, the team may suggest you self-isolate to protect your loved ones from the infection. Once you get your results, the team provides additional instructions depending on whether your test is positive or negative.