COVID-19 & PCR Testing
If you're experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, body aches, or other respiratory symptoms, timely testing can help determine whether COVID-19 is causing your illness and guide the most appropriate next steps. At Urgent Care & Wellness Center, we provide rapid antigen testing and COVID-19 PCR testing for children and adults at our Lutz and New Port Richey clinic.
Our physician-led team evaluates your symptoms, recommends the most appropriate test, and discusses treatment recommendations during the same visit whenever appropriate.
When Should You Consider COVID-19 Testing?
COVID-19 symptoms often overlap with the flu, the common cold, and other respiratory illnesses, making it difficult to know the cause of your symptoms without testing.
COVID-19 testing may be appropriate if you are experiencing:
Fever or chills
Cough
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Body aches
Fatigue
Loss of taste or smell
Recent exposure to someone with COVID-19
Respiratory symptoms before travel, work, school, or other activities that require testing
If you're unsure whether testing is appropriate, our providers will evaluate your symptoms and recommend the most suitable testing option for your situation.
Understanding Your COVID-19 Testing Options
The type of COVID-19 test recommended depends on your symptoms, when they began, your recent exposure history, and the reason for testing.
Rapid COVID-19 Testing
Rapid COVID-19 testing is an antigen test performed using a nasal swab collected during your visit. The sample is analyzed on-site to detect proteins from the COVID-19 virus.
COVID-19 PCR Testing
COVID-19 PCR testing is a laboratory-based molecular test that is also performed using a nasal swab. After the sample is collected, it is analyzed to detect the virus's genetic material. It is more sensitive than a rapid antigen test.
Rapid COVID-19 Testing vs. COVID-19 PCR Testing
Rapid COVID-19 Test | COVID-19 PCR Test |
|---|---|
Results are available during your visit. | Results typically available within about 24 hours. |
Detects proteins (antigens) from the virus. | Detects the virus's genetic material (RNA). |
Recommended when prompt results are needed. | Recommended when additional confirmation is appropriate. |
What to Expect During Your Visit
COVID-19 testing is integrated into your medical evaluation to help ensure you receive the most appropriate care.
Your provider will review your symptoms, recent exposure history, and medical history before determining whether COVID-19 testing is appropriate.
Based on your evaluation, we may recommend rapid COVID-19 testing or COVID-19 PCR testing.
When available, our provider will explain your test results, answer your questions, and discuss what they mean for your health.
If Your COVID-19 Test Is Positive
A positive COVID-19 test is only one part of your evaluation. Understanding how to manage your illness and when to seek additional medical care is equally important.
If you test positive, we will discuss:
- Your symptoms and overall condition
- Treatment recommendations based on your medical evaluation
- Supportive care to help manage symptoms at home
- When you can safely return to work, school, or normal activities
- Warning signs that require additional medical attention
Our goal is to ensure you leave your visit with clear guidance on managing your recovery and knowing what to expect in the days ahead.
More Than COVID-19 Testing
Many respiratory illnesses share similar symptoms, and COVID-19 isn't always the cause. Depending on your symptoms, our team may recommend additional evaluation or testing for other common illnesses, including:
- Influenza (Flu)
- Strep throat
- Mononucleosis (Mono)
- Sinus infections
- Upper respiratory infections
Prompt COVID-19 Testing in Florida
If you're feeling unwell or need COVID-19 testing for work, travel, school, or another reason, our team makes the process simple. At Urgent Care & Wellness Center, you can receive a medical evaluation, the appropriate COVID-19 test, and treatment recommendations during one convenient visit.
Call (813) 336-3954 or reserve your appointment online to receive timely testing, answers, and treatment, all in one convenient visit.
