As the COVID-19 crisis keeps its grip on our nation, with flare-ups and surges striking at alarming rates, it’s important to stay on top of your health, both for yourself and for those around you.

At Medical Access, we’re answering the call by providing rapid COVID-19 viral testing, which determines whether you’re currently infected.

Here’s a look at why you might seek testing, what the test entails, and when you can expect results.

Why test for COVID-19?

There are many reasons why you might want to test for this novel coronavirus, with fear of infection at the top of the list.

For example, if you’re developing the following symptoms, testing is an important step:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

This list of symptoms comes from the CDC and may change as medical researchers learn more. The bottom line is that if you’re feeling at all unwell, it’s absolutely worth ruling out or confirming COVID-19 so you can plan your next steps.

Another reason for testing might be that you’ve come in contact with someone who you know is infected with COVID-19. By “come into contact with,” we mean that you’ve been within six feet of the infected person for more than 15 minutes.

Another reason for testing might be occupational. As your workplace reopens, management may require that you get tested before coming in.

There are many reasons why you may want to get tested, even if it's just for peace of mind. Whatever your reason, we’re here to help.

Getting tested for COVID-19

The test for COVID-19 is quite easy — we simply take a nasal swab. Reports of this test being uncomfortable are largely without merit, and most of our patients tolerate the test very well. In fact, the swab takes mere seconds, and then you’re free to go.

We do ask that you quarantine yourself until you receive your results, especially if you’re symptomatic. The good news is that we deliver your results on the same day with our rapid testing.

You also don’t need to make an appointment for testing. Simply visit one of our three locations during operating hours, which you can find here on our contact page, along with the addresses so you can find the clinic nearest you.

If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would also like to remind you that flu season is around the corner, so you may want to combine your testing visit with getting your annual flu shot, which is more important than ever this year.