COVID-19 PCR molecular testing directly screens for the virus using a culture obtained from a nasal swab.  It indicates if a patient currently has the virus.  This test is available at all WellNow centers with results returned to the patient in 3-5 days.

COVID-19 rapid molecular or swab testing also directly indicates if a patient currently has the virus using a nasal swab. Results are returned to the patient in 15 minutes or less. This test is available at our Oswego and Oneonta centers, and administered using Abbott ID NOW.

Covid-19 rapid antigen testing indicates if a patient currently has the virus using a nasopharyngeal swab.  Results are returned to the patient in 15 minutes or less.  A confirmatory PCR test may be required, with results returned to the patient in 3-5 days.  This rapid test is available at all WellNow centers and administered using the CareStart™ antigen test by AccessBio.

Antibody testing uses a blood sample to indirectly screen for COVID-19 by looking for antibodies produced as the body’s response to a COVID-19 infection.  A positive or negative result from antibody testing alone is not enough to confirm presence or absence of infection, ongoing infection and/or long-term immunity.  Results are returned to the patient within 3-5 days.

There is still much to be learned from this virus, and accordingly, patients should still practice social distancing, wearing masks, frequent hand washing, avoiding touching their face, and following all other local health department guidelines to help reduce the spread of the virus.  For more information regarding COVID-19, please visit the CDC.

The number of times you can be tested will be determined by a WellNow provider. After an evaluation, this decision will be based on your symptoms and their duration. Certain essential-services personnel may need to be tested more than once.

Testing may be covered based on insurance coverage as part of the CARES Act. Contact your insurance carrier for full details on your coverage.

For self-pay patients, testing costs $100 for the PCR swab test, $43 for the antibody test, and $60 for the rapid swab and antigen tests, all in addition to the charge for the base visit and any other necessary services.

Results for both the COVID-19 PCR swab test and antibody test will return within 3-5 days. Patients in New York can get their results by registering for an account at www.mybostonheart.com 2-3 days after the sample was taken.

Rapid testing is currently available at 11 of our locations with results in 15 minutes. A confirmatory PCR test may be required, which results in 3-5 days.

If after 7 days you are still unable to obtain your results or are experiencing trouble with the portal, please contact the WellNow center where you were tested so we can help provide more information Please note that all positive COVID-19 PCR swab test results will receive a direct phone call from one of our team members. Patients in Chicago will receive all results directly from WellNow.

Because your health is our priority, we are following all sanitary guidelines from the CDC and local health departments in our facilities with:

• Reinforced disinfecting processes across all rooms, tables, chairs, computers, door handles and surfaces with EPA-registered cleaning products.
• Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for our staff and requiring all patients to wear masks upon entering a WellNow center or we are happy to provide you with one.
• Expanded telehealth services and accepted insurances from WellNow Virtual Medical to ensure our providers are available for those who need or prefer to receive care from home.

At this time, rapid testing is available at all WellNow centers.

Please note, if your rapid antigen test results negative, we are required to send a confirmatory PCR molecular test to our lab partner. For your convenience, we will swab you for both tests during your visit. The rapid antigen test will return results in 15 minutes and the confirmatory test will return results in 3-5 days.

Rapid Molecular testing is available at our centers in Oswego and Oneonta, with results available in 15 minutes.

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that produce a wide range of illnesses from the common cold to severe respiratory infections. COVID-19 is the disease caused by a novel coronavirus which was first detected in December 2019 and has since spread to several countries, including the U.S.

• Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water aren’t available.
• Don’t touch your face, particularly your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home from school or work if possible and avoid unnecessary travel or social outings.
• Practice social distancing by staying at least 6 feet away from other people.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and immediately throw the tissue out.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly.
• Seek medical care if you are experiencing symptoms.

Rest assured that we will take any necessary precautions to protect patients and staff from infection. All patients will be required to wear a mask throughout the duration of their visit, and exam rooms will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before another patient enters.

We have also instituted a new triage process which allows patients who have experienced COVID-19 symptoms or suspect they have been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 21 days to be screened while they remain in their vehicles. These patients are brought to an assigned room once ready for provider evaluation, therefore limiting any potential exposure.

Yes, individuals who are experiencing non-life-threatening COVID-19 symptoms are welcome to see one of our virtual providers for an evaluation. If during your virtual consultation we believe you require COVID-19 testing, we will direct you to your nearest WellNow center.

To start a virtual visit, or to find more information on how to use our platform, learn more here. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms like shortness of breath, visit your nearest ER immediately.

You are unable to use WellNow Virtual Medical to register for COVID-19 virus or antibody testing. If you are looking to receive testing, please visit your nearest WellNow center to check in using our carside triage process.

Currently, we believe COVID-19 is spread like most respiratory illnesses, which is by droplets produced when coughing or sneezing.

According to the National Institutes of Health, COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for lengths of time ranging from several hours to days, depending on the type of surface.

Shortness of breath can feel like:

• A tightening sensation in the chest
• Not being able to get enough air
• Being out of breath
• Being suffocated
• Having difficulty breathing

COVID-19 and influenza are caused by two different viruses. However, symptoms are similar, which is why patients who present symptoms may receive flu testing. We will provide COVID-19 testing if necessary.

There is no currently no approved treatment for COVID-19. However, a recent study published in International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents (March 2020) based on a small non-randomized clinical trial is highly suggestive of reducing viral load of COVID-19 among patients who were given combination of Hydroxychloroquine & Azithromycin. Our Clinical Team is reviewing medical literature and is in discussions with a consensus panel of experts to make this safe treatment available to our patients as soon as possible.