COVID-19 Testing Clinic in Greensboro, NC

At Triad Primary Care, we recognize the importance of accurate COVID-19 testing in ensuring the health and safety of our patients and community. Here is a brief guide to help you understand the different types of COVID-19 tests:

• Molecular (PCR/NAAT) Tests: Molecular tests, also called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, detect genetic material (RNA) from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Frequently perform these highly accurate tests, considered the gold standard for diagnosing active COVID-19 infection. PCR tests involve a simple nasal or throat swab, with results typically available within a few hours to a few days, depending on lab capacity.
• Rapid Antigen Tests: Rapid antigen tests detect specific viral proteins from SARS-CoV-2, providing results within 15 to 30 minutes. Although slightly less sensitive than PCR tests (meaning there’s a higher chance of false negatives), these tests are beneficial when speedy results are needed, such as when determining contagiousness or when immediate decision-making is essential.
• Antibody (Serology) Tests: Antibody tests detect antibodies produced by your immune system in response to a previous COVID-19 infection or vaccination. These tests are performed through a simple blood draw and do not identify active infections. Instead, antibody tests help our providers determine if you’ve had previous exposure to the virus or assess your immune response after vaccination. Note that antibody tests should not be used as the primary method to diagnose active COVID-19 infection.

Our goal is to help you select the right test based on your current symptoms, exposure history, travel requirements, or other personal factors. Our medical providers are here to guide you through this process, providing personalized care every step of the way. If you have any questions about COVID-19 testing or wish to schedule an appointment, please contact us at Triad Primary Care today.

Determining whether you need a COVID-19 test typically depends on several factors, including your symptoms, recent exposures, vaccination status, and current health guidelines. We recommend testing if you experience common COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, congestion, nausea, or diarrhea.

Additionally, we advise testing if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, even if you don’t currently have symptoms. If you’ve recently attended large gatherings or traveled, especially to areas with increased COVID-19 transmission, testing can help detect an infection early, even in the absence of symptoms. Some employers, schools, or other organizations may also require regular testing as part of their ongoing health and safety protocols.

Our team is here to provide you with accurate, personalized information regarding COVID-19 testing and prevention. If you have questions or concerns about whether you should get tested, please reach out to one of our healthcare professionals for individualized guidance and support.

If you’re seeking a COVID-19 test, Triad Primary Care offers convenient and reliable testing options for our patients. As your trusted primary care provider, we provide COVID-19 testing at our practice, ensuring a comfortable experience in a familiar setting. Local health departments also operate testing facilities or can refer you to nearby testing locations. Hospitals and specialized clinics can perform testing if you have symptoms or known exposure. Many communities within our area have established drive-through or walk-in testing sites for increased accessibility. For the most current information on COVID-19 testing availability, appointment scheduling, and any associated costs, please contact our office directly or visit our website.

COVID-19 testing options can be challenging, and we are here to help you make informed decisions about your health. COVID-19 tests vary in accuracy depending on factors such as the type of test used, timing, and correct sample collection. There are three main categories of COVID-19 testing: diagnostic tests—including molecular (PCR) tests and antigen (rapid) tests—and antibody tests.

• Molecular (PCR) COVID-19 Tests: PCR tests are highly accurate in diagnosing active COVID-19 infections. PCR tests detect the virus’s genetic material, offering high sensitivity and reliability. However, accuracy can be affected by the timing of the test; testing too early or too late in the infection may lead to false-negative results. Our experienced medical staff ensures proper sample collection, handling, and processing to provide you with accurate results.
• Antigen (Rapid) COVID-19 Tests: Antigen tests, commonly known as rapid tests, provide results within minutes. These tests detect specific viral proteins and are convenient due to their quick turnaround time. While slightly less sensitive than PCR tests, especially in those who are asymptomatic or have low viral loads, antigen tests are reliable when symptoms are present and viral load is high. Our healthcare providers can guide you on whether a rapid test is appropriate based on your symptoms and exposure history.
• Antibody COVID-19 Tests: In addition, Antibody testing is used to determine if you have previously been infected with or vaccinated against COVID-19. Antibody tests detect the immune system’s response to the virus, not active infection. Their accuracy improves approximately two to three weeks after infection or vaccination, as antibodies take time to develop. Importantly, antibody tests cannot reliably indicate immunity or protection against future infections. Our providers will help you interpret the results and what they mean for your personal health situation.

At Triad Primary Care, we recommend PCR tests for the most accurate diagnosis of active COVID-19 infection, antigen tests when quick results are needed, and antibody tests to understand past infection or vaccination status. Our team is committed to guiding you through the testing process, ensuring proper procedures, and accurately interpreting your results to support your health and wellness.  For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1309 Lees Chapel Rd., Greensboro, NC 27455. We serve patients from Greensboro NC, Browns Summit NC, McLeansville NC, Oak Ridge NC, Summerfield NC, and surrounding areas.