If you are experiencing some of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, it’s a good idea to get tested to be sure. When you take a COVID test, you want to know that you can trust the results. At Advanced Respiratory Care, we want you to know which COVID-19 test you should be taking and that you can trust the results of each of those tests.
COVID PCR Test Accuracy
This is the gold standard when it comes to testing for COVID-19 testing. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test can identify if you have an active infection, even if you are asymptomatic at the time of the test. As far as accuracy, the PCR test is regarded as the most accurate of the available tests, but full efficacy figures are not currently available.
COVID Rapid Antigen Test Accuracy
The rapid antigen test is the most cost-effective option in determining if you currently have COVID-19. After taking a nasal sample, results are generally available in about 15 minutes. Because of the rapid nature of the results, it is more likely for the rapid antigen test to yield a false negative result compared to the PCR test. You may be asked to take a PCR test to confirm a negative result from a rapid antigen test.
COVID Rapid Antibody Test Accuracy
This test is different than the others, it measures if your body has the antibodies present that resulted from a COVID infection. As a result, this test will tell you if you have had COVID in the past but won’t necessarily reveal if you have an active infection. Like the rapid antigen test, there is the potential for false negatives.
Alberta COVID Testing Options
Advanced Respiratory Care has set up testing at four of our locations in Alberta to offer PCR, rapid antigen and rapid antibody tests. These tests are available at the following locations:
- Sherwood Park
- Edmonton North
- Edmonton South
- Spruce Grove
Please visit the ARC website to request an appointment to schedule a COVID test.