COVID-19 Testing | Frequently Asked Questions
how much does a test cost? is it covered by insurance?
If you or a close contact are feeling symptomatic, COVID-19 testing will typically be covered by insurance and available at no cost to you.
Many test sites in the Commonwealth test uninsured individuals for free. If you are uninsured, call your local test site to confirm before making an appointment.
when Should I be tested?
You should get a test for COVID-19 if:
You develop any symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild, or
You are a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
You can also check your symptoms online, here.
What should i expect for covid-19 virus testing? does it hurt?
Virus testing is the type that tells you if you currently have COVID-19. These tests are typically done using a nasal swab, oral swab, or saliva sample, and then sent to a lab.
Virus testing is sometimes also called “PCR" testing.
While everyone deals with pain differently, some people tend to describe the test as a “sensation” rather than pain - similar to the feeling right before you have to sneeze.
what happens if I test positive?
If you test positive for COVID-19, we’re here to help. It can take a few days to get your test results and while you are waiting, you should stay home and limit your contact with anyone else. When you get your results, a provider will contact you and talk with you about next steps. Here's what you need to know.
what is an antibody test and should i get one?
Antibody testing is the type that helps you find out whether you may have been infected with COVID-19 in the past. This is a blood test that looks for antibodies, which are proteins in your blood that fight infections. Antibody testing is important to help us understand how many people have been exposed to the virus.
Important to know: at this time, most people don’t need antibody tests and they should not be used to guide decisions on whether to stop isolation or return to work. Currently, there is no proof that antibodies in your blood means that you are immune from further infection with COVID-19.
can someone test negative and later test positive?
Yes, it is possible. You may test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during this illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. Even if you test negative, you still should take steps to protect yourself and others. See Testing for Current Infection on the CDC’s website for more information.