HAMPTON ROAD, Va. - Patient First is now offering COVID-19 antibody testing at all of its locations, every day of the week.
The testing is on a walk-in basis only from 8 a.m., to 10 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
The antibody test is used to determine if someone previously had COVID-19 and not to diagnose an active infection.
Antibody testing is for patients who believe they may have had COVID-19 in the past, who are not currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, and who are at least 5 years old.
Patient First recommends being tested at least 14 days after onset of symptoms of COVID-19, or 14 days after possible exposure, as it may take as long as two weeks for antibodies to develop.
The COVID-19 Antibody Test used at Patient First tests to see if the blood has antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies may be found in the blood when the body is responding or has responded to an infection, such as COVID-19.
Results will generally be available in about two to five days. Patients can receive their results via text message or by phone.
For most patients, there is no out-of-pocket expense for antibody testing. For insured patients, the visit will be submitted to patients' insurance plans.
For those with symptoms of COVID-19, or who wish to determine if they have an active infection, Patient First also offers drive-up COVID-19 active virus testing at designated centers, by appointment only. For more information, click here.