Where to get a test
For symptoms
- We newly have COVID testing capabilities in our office. Call us to discuss
- Our in-house COVID machine is a rapid PCR and is very sensitive for patients within 7 days of symptoms
- Turn around time: 20 - 30 minutes
- We encourage you to sign up for our online portal, MyChart, if you have not already, in order to be able to download results for your documentation
- Please note, we have specific protocols for visits with COVID-compatible symptoms (specific time of day, rooming, and maximum time of visit), thus if you have symptoms and would like a test please notify us before your visit. We do not have the ability to do a COVID visit and a well or follow up visit at the same time, in order to keep exposure to a minimum for the safety of all.
- It is our understanding that tests for patients with symptoms should be covered by insurance, but we encourage you to call and discuss with your insurance company to review your specific plan.
For exposure, travel or clearance without symptoms:
- In our office or at the Newton-Wellesley Hospital outdoor testing tent
- Turn around time: ranges 1 - 3 days, and may be delayed pending on demand at the lab (scheduling at the tent can also take up to one week, thus we recommend you schedule clearance tests in advance)
- Please note, asymptomatic tests are no longer a covered service by most insurance companies. We recommend you call your insurance to inquire as to how much the test may cost.
- Newton-Wellesley's testing tent and our office are both currently running PCR tests that are run by the hospital lab. If you schedule a test at another site, please inquire what type of test they offer, as not all tests are valid for clearance of asymptomatic individuals.
Other testing options
- PDF of all current test sites, this gets updated regularly on mass.gov
- Interactive map of current testing sites
Who needs a test?
Anyone with symptoms or known close exposure to a COVID-19 case, defined as being within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes without appropriate PPE, explained here.
Anyone who travels and re-enters into Massachusetts unless they are from a low risk state both need a test and to fill out a travel form (or you have the option to quarantine for 14 days after return).
Of note, the CDC recommendation is to quarantine for a full 14 days if you have been exposed even if you have a negative test within that time period. Isolation vs quarantine explained here
Which test?
There are antigen, PCR and antibody tests. Antigen and PCR tests assess whether you actively have COVID. Antibody testing shows whether you were exposed. We still do not know if having antibodies means that you are immune, thus at this time it is not widely recommended, as the CDC recommends following the same general guidelines.
Stop the Spread initiative
- Stop the Spread initiative: This is a Massachusetts statewide initiative that offers free testing to all residents in areas with high number of COVID cases. It is recommended that all residents regardless of symptoms or exposures get tested in these areas. Check mass.gov regularly for locations.