Accurate COVID-19 testing is key to stopping the spread. If you are experiencing symptoms or have potentially been exposed to COVID-19, our healthcare team can help. Focused on providing high-quality medical services, the NasonCare staff has worked diligently throughout the pandemic to meet our community’s ever-changing needs.
The information provided below is based on the most recent CDC guidelines. To learn more, ask a member of our medical staff.
PCR Test vs Rapid Test: Which COVID-19 Testing Near Me is Better?
Here’s what you need to know about both types of COVID-19 tests:
PCR TEST
- Nasal swab
- Results available within 1-3 days
- Appropriate for people with and without symptoms
- No follow-up test required
- Also known as a laboratory test
RAPID TEST
- Nasal swab
- Fast results available within 15-30 minutes
- Results often less accurate for patients without symptoms
- Follow-up test may be required to confirm results
- Also known as an antigen test
Need a COVID Test Near Ne in Charleston, Get Covid Testing at NasonCare. Open 7 Days a Week, So Pre-register Here.
When Is a COVID-19 Test Recommended?
Our healthcare team recommends COVID-19 testing in the following scenarios:
- If you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms
- If you have had close contact (suspected or known) to someone with COVID-19 within the last 5 days
- For screening purposes (schools, workplaces, etc.)
- Before and after travel
- When requested by a healthcare professional or public health official
What To Expect at My COVID-19 Testing Center Visit
Be sure to bring the following with you to your appointment:
- Copy of your confirmation email
- Valid state ID or driver’s license
- Insurance card or voucher, if applicable
Note: For patients between the ages of 3 and 18, the parent or legal guardian who provided consent must bring these items.
Need a COVID Test Near Ne in Charleston, Get Covid Testing at NasonCare. Open 7 Days a Week, So Pre-register Here.
What Does My COVID Test Mean?
Test Result: NEGATIVE
A negative COVID-19 test result does not necessarily rule out an infection. If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19:
- You may have been tested before the virus was detectable.
- You may have another illness, such as the flu.
If you do not have symptoms of COVID-19 but were in close contact to someone with COVID-19, and you tested negative 5 days after exposure:
- You are likely not infected, but COVID-19 cannot be completely ruled out.
- Follow the CDC’s guidance by continuing to monitor for symptoms and wearing a mask.
If you do not have any symptoms and have had no known exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to quarantine. For any questions about your COVID-19 test results, contact a member of our medical staff today.
Test Result: POSITIVE
If you tested positive for COVID-19, follow these CDC-mandated guidelines:
- Stay home for at least 5 days and isolate yourself from others in your home if possible.
- Let your close contacts know that they may have been exposed.
- Wear a mask when around other people.
- Closely monitor for symptoms. Seek emergency care immediately if necessary.
- Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible if:
- Your symptoms worsen.
- You are an older adult or have an underlying medical condition.
- You have questions about your test results.
How Will I Get My COVID-19 Test Results?
PCR tests are packaged and sent to a lab, as directed by the CDC. Rapid tests provide quick results, available to you before you leave our COVID-19 testing center.
Is The COVID-19 Test Safe?
Yes, COVID-19 tests are perfectly safe. They are designed to detect SARS-CoV-2 or biomarkers of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), or antibodies that your body produces after contracting COVID-19 or receiving a vaccination.
Tests for SARS-CoV-2 indicate if you are infected by the virus at the time of the test. Tests for antibodies, however, may indicate past infection.
Who Can Receive a COVID-19 Test?
NasonCare offers testing to patients five years old and up. Minors receiving a COVID-19 test must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
When You Need A COVID-19 Test in Charleston or Other Urgent Care Assistance, Visit NasonCare!
Whether you are seeking a PCR test or rapid test, our healthcare team makes the process easy. There’s no appointment needed, so stop by our COVID-19 testing center today! We’re conveniently located in North Charleston, next to Northwoods Mall.
Other medical services offered at NasonCare include:
Meet Your NasonCare Physicians
Disclaimer: Information on this page is sourced from the CDC website. In the event of a discrepancy between the information on NasonCare.com and the CDC website, please follow CDC’s guidance.
Insured patients: Patients should not have out-of-pocket costs for covid testing, but you should check with your health plan to confirm before scheduling a test. A co-pay may be required.
Uninsured patients: Uninsured patients with no insurance should be aware that the HRSA’s COVID-19 Uninsured Program has stopped accepting claims for testing and treatment on March 22 at 11:59 p.m. ET and claims for vaccination on April 5 at 11:59 p.m. Please contact NasonCare directly for details on out-of-pocket cost for covid testing for uninsured patients.
