I got tested for Covid-19

I recently took a Covid-19 test so I thought I'd share my experience with you. Thankfully, everyone in the family tested negative.

Why did I get tested? My family and I are going on a trip with 4 other families. For everyone's peace of mind, we all agreed that the entire group will get tested before leaving for vacation. Since 12 of us will be staying in the same cabin, keeping everyone safe is our # 1 priority.


Where do you get tested for Covid-19?
1. If you have a scheduled surgery, procedure or hospital admission, you're required to get tested. Your healthcare provider will schedule a test before the day of your procedure.
2. If you do not have a doctor's order, you can make arrangements to have your testing done at one of the independent testing sites. If you live in OH, click here to find a testing site near you. Before scheduling an appointment, you have to complete an assessment to determine if you're a good candidate for a Covid-19 test. I completed the assessment and I didn't qualify since I had no symptoms, no contact with someone who has tested positive and I am not a front-line/healthcare worker.
3. If you do not have symptoms, there are selected urgent care facilities and pop-up testing sites that you can go to. That's what we did. I scheduled an appointment online and showed up for the test. The appointment took less than 15 minutes.

How much does testing cost?
If you have insurance, you can get tested at no charge to you. For self-pay patients, the cost is $150. A rapid test (15 minute results) is also available for an additional cost. I don't know exactly how much. I've heard it varies greatly across the country and in different cities (ranging between $85 - $500)

What does the COVID-19 swab test feel like?
There are throat swabs and the upper nasal swabs. They are considered most accurate. Throat swab is just like a strep test (~97% accurate). Upper nasal (what I had) is the same as the Influenza tests (~99% accurate). Bucal (cheek) swabs are not nearly as accurate as the aforementioned. The nasal swab wasn't that bad in my opinion. I was prepared for the worst but it was a little uncomfortable. It was over so fast and almost felt like a little tickle in my nose.

How long it takes to get results?
The turnaround time can be anywhere from 24-72 hours. I was tested on Saturday morning and my results were back the following Tuesday.

All in all, the test wasn't that bad. I am so thankful and relieved that everyone got a clean bill of health. We're excited to spend a week in the mountains with our friends and family.

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I got tested for Covid-19