SMA Specialty Medical Lab – COVID-19 PCR & Antibody Testing
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. As COVID-19 has spread around the globe, SMA Specialty Medical Laboratory is reaching out to our local community to assist schools, businesses, and doctor’s offices to combat the spread of COVID-19 with quick and accurate testing.
Covid-19 PCR Testing
Molecular Test for COVID-19 Infection
SMA Specialty Medical Laboratory offer high-throughput, automated testing that utilizes RT-PCR (Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) diagnostic testing to provide a molecular-based assay for the qualitative detection of the SARS-COV-2 virus.
How to Get Tested for a COVID-19 Infection
We provide on-site testing at the laboratory Monday-Friday between 10AM-4PM, no appointment required. Saturday hours are 8AM-4PM by appointment only.
Is COVID-19 Testing Covered by Insurance
COVID-19 RT-PCR testing is covered by most insurances. A laboratory prescription or requisition from an authorized healthcare provider is required for testing. The self-pay price for testing is $100.
Results can be accessed through our portal, fax, and email, if email address is provided.
Covid-19 Antibody Test
COVID-19 Antibody Test
Upon infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the patient’s immune system tries to fight the virus by producing blood-circulating molecules known as antibodies. IgM is a class of antibodies that appears early after an infection (as early as 3-5 days). IgM is the body’s first line of defense against a foreign antigen. IgG is another class of antibodies that appears later and gradually replaces the IgM antibodies. Usually, IgG antibodies appear in the blood circulation within 3-4 weeks after initial infection. The presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM and/or IgG antibodies in the blood of a patient is a strong indication that the patient has been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Antibody tests for COVID-19
SMA Specialty Medical Laboratory offers options for qualitative and quantitative detection of antibodies in the blood that are produced by the body in response to SARS-CoV-2 virus or after vaccination. The testing for antibodies tests for IgG or IgM antibody testing related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test helps physicians determine whether patients were recently exposed or infected with the COVID-19 virus and may also help indicate the overall immune response to the virus. Antibody tests are performed using blood specimens collected from individuals who may have been infected with COVID-19 or have been vaccinated.
How to get a Antibody test for COVID-19
Patients should contact their healthcare provider for testing requests. A laboratory prescription or requisition from an authorized healthcare provider is required for the testing. You may bring your prescription or requisition to SMA Specialty Medical Laboratory to have your blood collected. Patients must wear a mask or face cover and must not have experienced COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.
Are AntibodyTest for COVID-19 Covered by Insurance?
Antibody testing is covered by most insurance. The self-pay price for testing is $50 for IgM testing and $50 for IgG testing or $85 for the combination of IgM and IgG.