Now Serving Communities Nationwide Through Our Provider Network
SpectraCell is proud to partner with providers to bring access to COVID-19 PCR (Nasal Swab) and Antibody Testing nationwide in an effort to increase test capacity in response to this public health crisis.
Currently offered to clients in the US, not including Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico.
COVID-19 PCR (Nasal Swab) Test
PCR (molecular) testing is the most common and reliable method for diagnosing an existing infection by the COVID-19 virus (called SARS-CoV-2). This test looking for fragments of genetic material (called RNA) that are specific to this virus in biological tissue along the respiratory tract.
COVID-19 Serology Antibody Test
This test is designed to detect antibodies (called IgM and IgG) in the blood that are present when a person has been exposed to a virus in the past and built an immune defense against it.
Should my patient be tested?
PCR Testing: If your patient is currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or were exposed to the virus in the last 14 days, they are a candidate for this test.
Antibody Testing: If your patient believes they have been exposed to COVID-19 or have exhibited symptoms in the past, they may be a good candidate for this test. If a patient tested positive for an active infection (via nasal or throat swab), we generally recommend waiting 3 weeks after exposure to test for antibodies. They must be symptom-free for at least 7 days prior to testing.
Pricing
No insurance will be accepted for the COVID-19 Antibody Test. Pricing available within the Provider Gateway.
Requisitions
If you would like to order these tests, please contact Client Services at 1-800-227-5227 or support@spectracell.com to request a requisition form with these test options included.
Telemedicine - Electronic Requisitions
If you are practicing virtually and need a new electronic requisition for COVID-19 antibody testing, please email support@spectracell.com.
Test Kits
Our universal combo kit will be used to ship COVID-19 PCR and antibody specimens. You may conveniently order kits for your office or drop ship directly to a patient through our Provider Gateway.
Please note: Requisition forms are not included with kits that are drop-shipped to patients. Providers must give a requisition form to the patient to include with the specimen when shipped back to the lab.
Blood Draw
Patients can have their blood drawn at any one of our affiliated draw locations.
RT-PCR Testing
Expected Turnaround Time: 48-72 hours after arrival at SpectraCell
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal Swab (NP)
Container: Sterile NP tube
Collection Instructions
- Insert mini-tip through the nostril parallel to the palate (not upwards) until resistance is encountered or the distance is equivalent to that from the ear to the nostril of the patient. If a deviated septum or blockage creates difficulty in obtaining the specimen, use the same swab to obtain the specimen from the other nostril.
- Gently rub and roll the swab; leave in place for several seconds to absorb secretions.
- Slowly remove the swab while rotating it and immediately place in sterile tube containing transport medium. Break off swab and tightly screw on the red cap.
- Place each vile in its own biohazard bag. Place multiple bags containing the vials into the shipping container with the frozen ice brick.
- Place the shipping container and requisition(s) in a FedEx bag which has an "OPEN FIRST" stick on it, affix the airbill and seal the bag.
- Call FedEx for pickup. DO NOT PLACE IN A DROP BOX.
If unable to send the same day collected, store specimens at 2-8°C for up to 72 hours after collection. If a delay in testing or shipping is expected, store specimens at -70°C or below.
Antibody Testing
Expected Turnaround Time: 24-48 hours after arrival at SpectraCell
Related Documents:
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Serum
Container: Purple Top Tube
Collection Instructions
- No fasting required
- Collect 1 DEDICATED Half Full tube
- Invert 8 times immediately after drawing
- Refrigerate the sample at 2-8°C until shipped
- Ship in combo kit with ice brix frozen
- Label with Patient Name, DOB, and Date of Collection
- Include lab requisition form inside the kit
SpectraCell's COVID-19 Testing is currently not offered internationally, including Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico.