If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms, accurate testing is key. An early diagnosis not only helps stop the spread, but improves patient outcomes – and COVID-19 testing is now more convenient than ever!
Our friendly healthcare team offers both PCR tests and rapid tests to patients throughout our community. As we monitor the ever-changing COVID-19 situation, NasonCare continues to adhere to the latest CDC guidance. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our medical staff!
Where is A Good COVID-19 Testing Center Near Me?
NasonCare provides quick, easy COVID-19 testing – right here in North Charleston next to Northwoods Mall! We’re open 7 days a week, no appointment necessary! Plus, you don’t need a referral. We accept most major insurance companies, but because we’ve made care more cost-effective, we also welcome uninsured patients. Ready for a covid test, you can pre-register your visit at NasonCare now!
What Does My COVID-19 Test Mean?
Committed to providing the very best care, your certified physician will help explain your test results. Here’s what you need to know:
If Your COVID Test Is Negative…
A negative test doesn’t completely rule out an infection, so be sure to follow any recommendations issued by your healthcare team. If you are showing symptoms, keep the following in mind:
- You may have COVID-19, but were tested before the virus was detectable.
- You may have another illness, like the flu.
If you are not experiencing symptoms but were in close contact with someone with COVID-19 (and tested negative 5 days after exposure), you are likely not infected. There is no need to quarantine if you do not have any COVID symptoms and have not had any known exposure.
If Your COVID Test Is Positive…
The virus has been detected. Follow these precautions:
- Stay home for at least 5 days.
- Isolate yourself from others in your home if possible.
- Let your close contacts know about possible exposure.
- Wear a mask when around others.
- Monitor symptoms and seek medical services if necessary
- Contact your doctor as soon as possible if symptoms worsen or if a medical condition makes you susceptible to complications.
What to Expect at My COVID Testing Center Visit
Remember to bring the following with you to your testing appointment:
- Copy of your confirmation email
- Valid state ID or driver’s license
- Insurance card or voucher, if applicable
Note: For patients between the ages of 3 and 18, the parent or legal guardian who provided consent must bring these items.
Common COVID-19 Testing FAQS
Is the COVID-19 test safe?
Yes, COVID-19 tests are safe. They are used to detect the following:
- SARS-CoV-2 or biomarkers of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19)
- Antibodies produced after contracting COVID-19
- Antibodies produced after getting vaccinated
Keep in mind that tests for SARS-CoV-2 indicate if you are infected by the virus at the time of the test. Tests for antibodies, however, may indicate past infection. Ready for a covid test, you can pre-register your visit at NasonCare now!
When is the COVID-19 test most accurate?
Accurate results are most likely when you are tested a few days after COVID-19 exposure. This period of time allows your body to develop a viral load large enough to be detected. The CDC recommends getting tested as soon as you notice symptoms, and at least 5 days after exposure if you are not experiencing any symptoms.
How long is the incubation period for COVID-19?
COVID-19 may incubate for up to 14 days, so it is important to get tested at least once a week following exposure.
Can someone first test negative for COVID-19 then test positive soon after?
Yes. If you were tested before the virus was detectable, you may test positive a few days later. If you are experiencing symptoms or were exposed to COVID-19, our healthcare team may recommend getting tested again following a negative result.
Can I get COVID-19 from my pet?
There is no proof that viruses, including the one that causes COVID-19, can spread from pets to people.
How long are you contagious after being sick with COVID-19?
Most COVID-19 patients are no longer contagious 5 days after they first show symptoms and have been fever-free for at least three days. COVID-19 affects people differently, with some never experiencing symptoms at all.
- Asymptomatic: For patients who never show symptoms, isolation can end at least 5 days after the first positive test. We recommend that these people continue to wear a mask in public for 5 more days after the 5-day isolation period. If symptoms develop after a positive test, the 5-day isolation period should restart.
- Mild Symptoms: For those experiencing mild symptoms, isolation can end at least 5 days after symptoms start and after fever ends for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication). As symptoms continue to improve, wear a mask around others for 5 more days after the 5-day isolation period.
- Moderate Symptoms: For people with moderate symptoms, isolate for 10 days.
- Moderately or Severely Immunocompromised: People with underlying medical conditions may be contagious longer. Extend isolation to 20 or more days and consult your doctor for more details.
- Severe Symptoms: People who are severely ill (i.e., requiring hospitalization, intensive care, or ventilation support): Extending the duration of isolation and precautions to at least 10 days and up to 20 days after symptom onset, and after fever ends (without the use of fever-reducing medication) and symptoms are improving, may be warranted.
Can you get reinfected with COVID-19?
Reinfections have occurred – even shortly after recovery! Researchers expect this to become more common as new variants arise.
How will I get my COVID-19 test results?
At NasonCare, PCR tests are packaged and sent to a lab, as directed by the CDC. Rapid tests provide quick results, available to you before you leave our COVID-19 testing center. Ready for a covid test, you can pre-register your visit at NasonCare now!
How old do you need to be to Get a COVID-19 Test?
NasonCare offers COVID-19 tests to patients ages 5 and older. Note: Minors getting tested must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Can my employer require me to take a COVID-19 test for work?
In general, yes! According to the EEOC, employers can require employees to undergo viral testing if the employer follows testing procedures that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you have further concerns with taking a covid test for employment, please speak with your employer or your own legal counsel for further assistance.
When do I need to get a COVID-19 test if I’m traveling?
If you’re traveling domestically but have not been fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends getting a COVID-19 test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days). Get the latest CDC guidance here.
Test results cannot be guaranteed by a specific time, so plan accordingly. For PCR tests, the turnaround time provided is an estimate and may vary.
What Do I Need Regarding COVID-19 Guidelines for Traveling?
Be sure to stay up to date on the latest CDC guidance when planning your trip. Here’s what you need to do before and after traveling:
Before your trip:
- Consult accurate resources for domestic, international and cruise ship travel.
- Monitor specific travel recommendations for your destination.
- Follow any testing, proof of vaccination, masking, and quarantine requirements at your destination.
- If a negative COVID-19 test is needed, visit NasonCare today!
After you travel:
- All travelers (including those who are fully vaccinated) should self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms and get tested 3 to 5 days after returning home if they develop.
- If you’re not fully vaccinated, self-quarantine for 5 days – even if you’ve tested negative.
When You Need A COVID-19 Test in Charleston or Other Urgent Care Assistance, Visit NasonCare!
Our medical staff is here to serve you, offering PCR tests and rapid tests! Come see us today – no appointment needed! So, all set and ready for a covid test, you can pre-register your visit at NasonCare now!
Other medical services offered at NasonCare include:
Meet Your NasonCare Physicians
Disclaimer: Information on this page is sourced from the CDC website. In the event of a discrepancy between the information on NasonCare.com and the CDC website, please follow CDC’s guidance.
Insured patients: Patients should not have any out-of-pocket costs for covid testing, but you should check with your health plan to confirm before scheduling a test.
Uninsured patients: Uninsured patients with no insurance should be aware that the HRSA’s COVID-19 Uninsured Program has stopped accepting claims for testing and treatment on March 22 at 11:59 p.m. ET and claims for vaccination on April 5 at 11:59 p.m. Please contact NasonCare directly for details on out-of-pocket cost for covid testing for uninsured patients.
