COVID-19 TESTING NOW AVAILABLE
Call us to schedule your Appointment
285-5642 / 4636 or 287-0418 or 726-5394
285-5642 / 4636 or 287-0418 or 726-5394
PCR TESTING
Turnaround Time - Less than 24 hours
ANTIGEN TESTING
Turnaround Time - Less than 2 hours
What is PCR Testing?
PCR means polymerase chain reaction. It’s a test to detect genetic material from a specific organism, such as a virus. The test detects the presence of a virus if you have the virus at the time of the test. The test could also detect fragments of the virus even after you are no longer infected.
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 is a molecular test that analyzes your upper respiratory specimen, looking for genetic material (ribonucleic acid or RNA) of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Scientists use the PCR technology to amplify small amounts of RNA from specimens into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is replicated until SARS-CoV-2 is detectable if present. The PCR test has been the gold standard test for diagnosing COVID-19. Our laboratory uses a fully FDA approved machine to perform such testing. This result is both reliable and accurate.
What is an Antigen Test?
Antigen tests are a method of detecting an active infection with SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes the illness COVID-19. These tests look for antigens, which are protein markers found on the outside of a SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test is performed on a sample that is taken by swabbing inside your nose.
Screening, through the use of rapid antigen detection tests, can assist in identifying positive cases earlier to help reduce the spread of the virus and prevent outbreaks. At Health Net Caribbean, we strictly utilize World Health Organization approved testing kits assuring you, our clients, quality results that you can rely on. Antigen testing is rapid, reliable and an affordable to keep safe and know your status.
Both a positive or negative antigen test in persons with or without signs or symptoms of COVID-19 must be confirmed by a COVID-19 PCR test, a more sensitive test. Results from a COVID-19 PCR test are considered the definitive result.
