COVID-19 Testing in North Carolina

PCR and Rapid COVID-19 Testing is available 7 days a week at all centers. Our providers can evaluate you in-center or via Virtual Visit and then administer a quick test at any of our centers. 

For more accurate results, we ask that patients exposed to COVID-19 in the past 10 days wait at least 7 days before getting tested. 

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How It Works

Rapid Molecular COVID-19 Test Instructions

1. Schedule a Virtual or In-Center Evaluation with a Provider

If you've been exposed to COVID-19 please wait at least 7 days before getting tested

2. Follow Instructions from Your Provider to Receive the Rapid Test

The rapid test is completed by a nasal swab and evaluated in a lab.

3. Receive Your Results in Approximately 15 Minutes

If your test results are positive, your provider will discuss next steps for care.

Please select one of our COVID-19 testing centers (designated by the yellow bar).

COVID-19 Testing for Travel

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure - it's now easier to get tested for COVID-19 prior to travel. Depending on your destination, a negative COVID-19 test result (within 72 hours of your travels) may be required to avoid a mandatory quarantine period.

At Novant Health-GoHealth Urgent Care we offer both PCR and Rapid COVID-19 testing - with convenient evaluation options to fit your schedule. You have the choice to save your spot online at a nearby center for an evaluation and test or schedule a virtual clinical evaluation and then go to a local center for a quick in-person test.

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What is the Rapid Molecular COVID-19 Test?

The Abbott Rapid COVID-19 test was authorized by the FDA under an emergency use authorization in healthcare settings. 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.
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How Does a Virtual COVID-19 Evaluation Work?

After a Virtual Visit evaluation with a provider, patients will be provided with a testing same-day or next-day appointment at a specific Novant Health-GoHealth Urgent Care center. PCR test results will typically be available in 1 day. Rapid test results will be available on-site in approximately 15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get tested for COVID-19?

Yes, COVID-19 Testing is available at all of our centers - please save your spot online or schedule a Virtual Visit evaluation.

Do you have Rapid PCR testing available?

Yes, Rapid PCR Testing - with results in approximately 45 minutes - is available at our Kernersville and Berewick locations. 

All centers offer Rapid Molecular COVID-19 Testing (Results available in 15 minutes) and non-rapid PCR COVID-19 testing (Results available next day)

How long do I have to wait for test results if I do get tested?

Our rapid COVID-19 test results will be available on-site in approximately 15 minutes. PCR test results are typically available in 1 day. You can find your results on your Patient Portal 3-4 days for antibody tests.) Please do not call our centers for test results, as results will be communicated to you as soon as they are completed via MyChart (Patient Portal) and a phone call. If you have issues logging into your Patient Portal, please call 844-266-8268, option 1.

How much does a COVID-19 test cost?

Patient responsibility, or your out-of-pocket cost, for COVID-19 testing is based on your specific insurance coverage and plan. Please contact your insurance carrier for details about your plan details and coverage, including copays, before you visit to understand your financial responsibility.

Can I receive a COVID-19 test for travel clearance?

Yes, we offer COVID-19 testing for upcoming travel at all centers. Patients with COVID-19 symptoms and/or a COVID-19 exposure in the past 14 days will not be tested for travel clearance, as they don't meet travel testing requirements.

Rapid PCR testing - with results in approximately 45 minutes - is available at our Kernersville and Berewick locations. 

Can I get tested multiple time for COVID-19?

If you have received a positive COVID-19 test result previously, you must wait until the required isolation period is complete before you can be tested again. A follow up test prior to the end of your isolation period is not recommended by the CDC and will not provide early clearance. 

If your past COVID-19 test result was negative, you may schedule another clinical evaluation and test at any of our centers or using our Virtual Visit service.

What is the difference between the PCR and Rapid COVID-19 (Abbott ID NOW) Test?

Both the PCR and the rapid Abbott ID NOW COVID-19 tests can detect SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes COVID-19, by amplifying the genetic code at a higher sensitivity than antigen tests. Although they are both NAAT tests, the difference between PCR and Abbott ID NOW is how the amplification is achieved. PCR is a technology that uses temperature cycling to create high fidelity copies of genetic code. This is the gold standard method of amplifying genetic code, but the need to raise and lower the temperature repeatedly takes time. In contrast, isothermal molecular amplification tests, such as Abbott's ID NOW, can accomplish a similar outcome at a single temperature. Without the need to wait for temperature changes, this method runs slightly faster.

Stay Healthy, North Carolina!

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COVID-19 Testing Information