4 Questions to Answer Before Selecting a COVID-19 Testing Partner

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With COVID-19 still prevalent across the United States, many businesses, event organizers, and schools are looking to incorporate a testing protocol as part of their COVID-19 mitigation strategy. But finding a COVID-19 testing partner can be a difficult task. After all, you want the testing process to be as seamless as possible, and you also need the third-party vendor managing your testing protocol to be reliable. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here are a few questions to answer before selecting a COVID-19 testing partner.

Selecting a Third-Party COVID-19 Testing Partner

1) What type of test do you need?

Before selecting a testing provider, it’s important to decide what test best meets your needs. 

There are two main types of diagnostic tests available in the U.S. to detect an active COVID-19 infection: PCR and antigen.

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests, also referred to as molecular tests, work by detecting the genetic material specific to the virus. They are considered the “gold standard” in diagnostic testing because they are the most accurate and sensitive tests available for detecting COVID-19.

Antigen tests work by detecting specific viral proteins on the surface of the virus. They are not as sensitive as PCR tests, meaning they are less likely to detect an infection if the viral load (how much of the virus is in the body) is low.

2. How quickly do you need results?

Turnaround time is an essential factor to think about when choosing a COVID-19 testing partner.

Antigen tests are faster than PCR tests because results can be processed on-site, while PCR tests require the specimen to be sent to the lab. There are certain scenarios where getting results as soon as possible is particularly beneficial. For example, if you are testing at an event. An antigen test would yield results within minutes

On the other hand, if you are testing employees weekly, you may value test sensitivity over test time. If you can wait a day or two to receive results, then a PCR test may better meet your needs.

Regardless of the test you choose, you want to pick a testing partner that can deliver your results as soon as possible. The faster the results, the quicker you can identify and notify an infected person so they can self-isolate to avoid spreading the virus to others.

3. What is your budget?

Cost is an essential factor to consider when creating a COVID-19 testing program. Mobile testing service prices vary depending on a variety of factors, including the test type, how many people need to get tested, and the provider you choose.

Metriks, for example, offers concierge COVID-19 testing services free of charge for qualifying accounts. In almost all cases, we can bill insurance for the COVID test. For uninsured patients, we bill the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program for PCR testing.

4. What software will the company use to manage your testing process?

The software the lab uses to communicate with clients and patients is important. You want to work with a company that uses a platform that is easy to use and understand.

Metriks utilizes LabPort, a user-friendly lab information management software that simplifies the entire testing process from pre-registration to results delivery. Patients can use the software to register ahead of time, check in for their test upon arrival, and receive their results via a HIPAA-compliant text message and email. Administers can also access relevant information with their dashboard consisting of real-time data.

Implementing a Successful COVID-19 Testing Protocol

There is a lot of work that goes into planning and implementing a COVID-19 testing protocol. But by partnering with the right testing provider, you can set up a successful testing procedure that is both effective and efficient.

Metriks delivers customized testing solutions for corporations, schools, event sites, and more! Easy on-site testing through an advanced system provides a seamless process from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more!

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