What is the Rapid COVID-19 Test?
The Abbott Rapid COVID-19 test was recently authorized by the FDA under an emergency use authorization in healthcare settings (although it has not been FDA cleared or approved). The rapid COVID-19 test provides results within approximately 15 minutes.
- The test starts with taking a swab from the nose or the back of the throat, then mixing it with a chemical solution that breaks open the virus and releases its RNA.
- Using the molecular technology from the Abbott ID NOW system, the mixture is inserted into an ID NOW box that has the technology to identify and amplify select sequences of the coronavirus genome and ignore contamination with other viruses.
Our team is well-equipped and well-trained for this method of testing, having already used Abbott’s ID NOW testing platform to perform rapid tests for flu and strep testing.

How Does a Virtual COVID-19 Evaluation Work?
Patients who qualify for the Rapid COVID-19 Test after a Virtual Visit evaluation with a provider will be provided with curbside testing appointments at specific Novant Health-GoHealth Urgent Care centers. Within minutes of being tested, you will know if you are positive for COVID-19 and will be given direction as to the next steps in care.
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