Virtually every aspect of our lives has been touched by COVID-19, and going in for a test to see if you have the virus or to get treatment can be a very difficult experience. At Absolute Urgent Care we make sure that while you are attended your health is our priority. If you’re unsure what to expect if you get tested and treated for COVID-19, I’m going to walk you through the process step-by-step so you feel prepared and confident about your visit.
Why You Need COVID-19 Testing
With the COVID-19 virus still circulating, knowing whether you are infected is particularly important if you have had close contact with someone who has tested positive or are experiencing symptoms. Early detection can help slow the spread of the virus and get you the medical care you need. We perform these tests, using all the testing options available to best serve our patients.
Types of COVID-19 Tests
At Absolute Urgent Care, there are two primary forms of COVID-19 testing that you’ll find when you come in:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Test That is generally used for diagnostic testing since it can find the virus in individuals who are asymptomatic. The test requires a nasal swab that is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- Antigen Test: The Antigen Test is faster than the PCR test and gives you the results within 15–30 min. It is usually used when rapid results are needed, but it may be less accurate than the PCR test, especially in people without symptoms.
Both tests are offered at Absolute Urgent Care, and our medical staff will help assess which option is best for your needs.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If you’re visiting Absolute Urgent Care for COVID-19 testing or treatment, here’s what you can expect at each step of the process:
Arrival at the Facility
When you arrive, you will be welcomed by our staff. We have put carefully orchestrated safety measures in place for your safety and the safety of those you will come in contact with such as social distancing and thorough sanitation procedures.
Registration And First Screening
Before testing can be done, you’ll have to enter your personal information and fill out a short health questionnaire. This will help our health care providers understand your symptoms, if you have a medical history, and if there is a chance you’ve been exposed to the virus. You might also be asked to give your insurance information or to pay for your visit if you don’t have insurance.
COVID-19 Testing
Then, you will take the COVID-19 test. If you’re undergoing the P.C.R. test, a health care worker will gently swab the inside of your nose. The procedure is very fast but it does not feel so good for a moment. If you’re doing the Rapid Antigen Test, the swab will be taken the same way, but you generally get your results in a more timely fashion.
Waiting for Results
After the test is completed, you will either be instructed to wait in an area or told to leave and given instructions on how to get your results. Pure PCR tests take around 24-48 hours to get results. The result of Rapid Antigen Test will be generated within minutes. We will notify you of your results as soon as they are available.
COVID-19 Treatment Options
If you have a positive test for COVID-19, do not panic. Absolute Urgent Care offers a wide variety of treatment solutions that can help you address your symptoms and get back on the road to recovery. Here’s how treatment might play out:
Symptomatic Treatment
For mild symptoms such as fever, cough or fatigue, our health-care providers may recommend over-the-counter medicines to reduce discomfort. We might also recommend rest and hydration to help your body combat the virus. It’s essential to keep track of your symptoms and to contact a doctor if they get worse.
Prescription Medications
In some cases, if your symptoms are more severe or you have underlying health conditions that could complicate the infection, we might as well prescribe antiviral medications to help manage the virus. These drugs may help lessen the severity and duration of the symptoms, and they are usually most effective if taken early in the course of the infection.
Oxygen Therapy and Hospital Referral
For patients who are struggling to breathe and have critically low levels of oxygen, our medical team will provide oxygen therapy for the patient and if need the hospital for further care. We want to make sure that you receive the right care for how sick you are.
Follow-Up Care
At Absolute Urgent Care, we don’t only test and treat. We will schedule follow-up care to make sure you are on your way to recovery. We’ll tell you how to track your symptoms, when to look for medical care and what to know about quarantine or isolation protocols.
Why Choose Absolute Urgent Care?
At Absolute Urgent Care, we pride ourselves in our level of care and expertise that make us a cut above other healthcare providers. Some of the reasons why our patients trust us for COVID-19 testing and treatment include:
- Fast and Dependable Results: We provide fast testing, with results available in a matter of minutes or days, depending on the test type. You will not be left wondering for long about your status.
- Trained Medical Staff: Our doctors and staff members trained to diagnosis and care of the patients affected with COVID-19. To receive the very best care, you should be advised by professionals who are current with the latest guidelines and treatment protocols, and we absolutely do.
- Extended Hours: We know your time is limited, and we help you with hours to suit your needs. We’re around if you need to come in early, late, and on the weekend.
- Telehealth Services: When there’s a little something off but not enough to justify coming in, we provide virtual consultations so you can receive a little check-up from the comforts of your home.
We know that being tested for COVID-19 or being treated for it can be a daunting experience. Whether you have symptoms, need a test for travel, or have been exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case, we can help. Knowing what to expect during COVID-19 testing and treatment can help you enter our facility informed and confident that you’ll receive the right care. In the meantime, take care everyone and reach us at Absolute Urgent Care for any & all of your COVID-19 testing/treatment needs.
