Frequently Asked Questions
Who do we test?
We provide testing to patients of all ages.
Do we accept insurance?
We are not contracted with any commercial or government insurances. We do not accept Medicare or AHCCCS insurance plans.
We do not bill insurance, and you will be required to provide payment at the time of service. However, we will provide you with a copy of your receipt along with your test results via our portal, which will provide you with the necessary information to supply to your insurance carrier to request reimbursement. You are able to pay for services with your HSA or FSA account if desired.
This Health Insurance Claim Form and AZ Rapid Covid Letter head may be helpful when submitting reimbursement to your carrier.
Will my test result be reported to applicable county health departments?
Yes. All test results are reported daily, as required by law. We follow all of the Maricopa County guidelines for test reporting, see the Arizona Department of Health Services website link below for additional details. https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/infectious-disease-epidemiology/index.php#novel-coronavirus-lab-resources
What is an antigen test?
The antigen test detects for certain proteins on the COVID-19 virus, which implies active viral infection. An antigen test can generally produce results within 15 minutes. Due to the speed of this test, the antigen test may be more practical to use for large numbers of people or those requiring same day results. Antigen testing has also been commonly used in the diagnosis of influenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
What is a PCR test?
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a highly sensitive molecular based test used to detect and amplify the genetic material from a virus in the infected cells of the patient sample. Even small amounts of virus can be detected using this method. The rapid PCR test can produce results within 30 minutes and provide a more accurate result.
What type of test is this?
We offer Rapid COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) testing and COVID & Flu A+B testing using the BD Veritor Plus Analyzer. We also offer a Rapid PCR SARS-CoV-2 Test using the Thermo Fisher Scientific AcculaTM Dock.
Why do I need this test?
If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 or have had COVID-like symptoms recently. This test can also be used to meet employer/school requirements and/or for traveling purposes. It is important to confirm with your employer or other entity to ensure they accept the rapid antigen test results. Some may require a PCR test.
What type of specimen will be collected for this test?
This test requires a nasal swab sample. This is done by inserting the swab into your nostril approximately one inch into the nasal passage. The swab will be rotated several times, then repeated on the opposite side.
What does it mean if I have a positive test result?
A positive result indicates that the protein from the SARS-CoV-2 and/or Influenza virus was detected and that you are considered to be infected with the virus and presumed to be contagious. It is important that you follow isolation guidelines if you receive a positive test.
What does it mean if I have a negative test result?
A negative result indicates that the SARS-CoV-2 and/or Influenza virus was not present in the specimen, and it is likely you are not infected at the time of test. However, you can still become infected later. There is a chance that the result might be a false-negative result (particularly during the early stages of infection), meaning that it is possible to be infected with the virus but still have a negative result. Depending on your specific history, a COVID-19 PCR test may be recommended to confirm a negative antigen test.
Are these tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)?
Yes, the tests we utilize have been approved for use by the FDA. Please see additional details released by the FDA below:
The U.S Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a COVID-19 antigen diagnostic test, the BD (Becton Dickinson) Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2. This is the second antigen test the FDA has authorized for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens. An EUA has also been issued for the BD (Becton Dickinson) Veritor System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 & Flu A+B and the Mesa Biotech Accula SARS-CoV-2 test for detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in specimens from patients suspected of COVID-19 infection. These tests are authorized for use in laboratories certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) for high, moderate or waived complexity testing, meaning it can be used in patient care settings operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, Certificate of Compliance, or Certificate of Accreditation. Emergency use of this test is limited to authorized laboratories using the BD Veritor Plus Analyzer or AcculaTM Dock instruments: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Legislation/CLIA.
Are your testing sites CLIA certified?
Yes, all of our locations are Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified.
Scottsdale: CLIA #03D2204335
Gilbert: CLIA #03D2208484
Glendale: CLIA #03D2226775
Testing Site Rules and Procedures
Arizona Rapid COVID offers convenient, rapid antigen and PCR COVID-19 testing in Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Glendale with same-day results.
- Upon successful registration to our portal and scheduling of an appointment, please retain your portal log in information as we will be sending your test results via your patient account.
- State-issued photo ID (drivers license, state-issue ID card) is required for an Arizona COVID test to be performed. We are only able to test residents of Maricopa County.
- Payment is due upon scheduling of appointment. We do not provide refunds.
- Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
- Please follow on-site directions for entrance to testing facility and designated parking areas. You must remain in your vehicle at all times. We are not able to offer testing to persons arriving on bicycle, motorcycle, or on foot.
- You and all persons accompanying you must wear a mask (covering your mouth and nose) while at the testing facility.
- You will receive results via our patient portal. It is important to provide an accurate email address in order to access your results. You will receive an email once results are available on the portal website.
- For more information please read the FDA Fact Sheet for Patients (BD Veritor) regarding COVID-19 antigen testing, or the FDA Fact Sheet for Patients (Mesa Biotech, Accula SARS-CoV-2 Test) regarding COVID-19 PCR testing.