Which tests can be done at urgent care?

You might be wondering what types of medical tests  can be done at urgent care. While some tests are unique to your healthcare provider’s office and others can only be done at a hospital or emergency room, we offer various convenient urgent care testing options. The following is a list of tests that can typically be completed in our urgent care centers.

X-rays

At most of our centers, we can do X-ray imaging of the bones (to check for fractures and breaks) and the chest (to check for pneumonia and other abnormalities in the chest and lungs). In many centers, we have a mobile X-ray machine that will come into your exam room, so you don’t have to move. If the mobile X-ray machine is unavailable, a staff member will help you in our X-ray room.

X-ray results are available on the same day. Not all centers offer X-rays, but most do, so call ahead if you need one. 

COVID-19 antigen test

If you are having symptoms of COVID-19, you may be wondering, does urgent care do COVID-19 testing? We offer several types of COVID-19 tests depending on your needs. 

A COVID-19 antigen test is the fastest test, with results in just a few minutes. It detects the presence of certain viral proteins in your nose. 

Rapid molecular test

A rapid molecular test is also a rapid test, but it tests for the presence of viral DNA. This type of test requires special equipment and is typically used for urgent care testing. Results are typically available in 15 minutes. 

Rapid PCR test

A rapid PCR test is similar to a rapid molecular test. Results from this test are typically available in 30 minutes. 

Standard PCR test

A standard PCR test is the most accurate of the COVID-19 tests available. Results take a few days. 

EKG test/ECG test

An EKG and ECG test is the same type of test. We use the electrocardiogram (ECG) test to measure electrical patterns of the heart to check for abnormal rhythms and evidence of a heart attack. 

This simple test can save lives as we can know immediately if there are any concerns with your heart. If there is any sign of a heart attack, we will immediately transfer you to a nearby emergency room for more care.

Strep test

A throat swab is done to test for strep bacteria in the throat. It takes about 5-10 minutes to receive the results.

Mono test

A finger stick blood test can be done to test for mononucleosis. It takes about 5-10 minutes to receive the results.

Flu test

 A nasal swab test can help determine if you have the flu, or a viral respiratory infection. It takes about 10-15 minutes to receive the results.

Urine analysis

This urine test helps look for infection, blood and more. This test is used to detect urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease and diabetes. Results can take a few days. 

Urine HCG 

A urine human chorionic gonadotropin test (Urine HCG) determines if you are pregnant. Test results are immediate but will not always be accurate if taken too soon (prior to 10 days after your missed period).

Blood test

Blood tests are diagnostic tests that your healthcare provider can use to diagnose various medical conditions. These tests must be sent to a lab for analysis; therefore, results are typically available in a few days.

Diabetes

While we can test for elevated blood sugar, we typically do not diagnose diabetes. If your blood sugar is elevated, we will refer you to your PCP or a specialist to confirm the diagnosis.

TB tests

This test is an injection placed in the skin to screen for tuberculosis. Your healthcare provider must read the skin test 48-72 hours after the initial injection.

Vaginitis tests

A swab or culture can be done to test for bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. Results take a few days.  

Pregnancy test

We can perform a pregnancy test at any of our centers if you suspect you might be pregnant. Results are available within a few minutes for a urine test or a few days for a blood test. 

Sexually transmitted disease testing

We can use a swab or urine samples to test for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomonas. Labs will be sent off for results, which may be returned in several days or a week.

Visit urgent care for your next test

We can provide all the above tests, many with results while you wait. 

If you need help with the right lab tests, come see our experts at urgent care. You can walk in or you can save your spot online.  If you have any questions about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact your local urgent care. We’ll have you back to feeling better in no time.

Written by Sarah Thebarge, Physician Assistant