1. How does the anterior nasal swab work?

• Nasal sampling is less invasive and results in less patient discomfort than sampling from other upper respiratory anatomical sites.

• A self-administered nasal swab is similar to a nasopharyngeal swab in detecting coronavirus.

• Collection of nasal swab specimens is less technically complex, so can reduce the risk of the spread of infection to healthcare providers, by (1) reducing the duration of the procedure, and (2) allowing the patient to perform self-collection while under supervision.

• It also lessens PPE utilization, given that the patient can perform self-collection under supervision (versus the health care provider performing the collection).

• The procedure for nasal (anterior nasal) sampling is as follows: Using a flocked or spun polyester swab, insert the swab at least 1 cm (0.5 inch) inside the nostril (naris) and firmly sample the nasal membrane by rotating the swab and leaving in place for 10 to 15 seconds. Sample both nostrils with same swab.

 

2. How fast should I expect results?

• The Rapid NAAT test results will be in at approximately 20-40 minutes. If you test positive with a NAAT, results will come back in just a few minutes.

• The Rapid Antigen test results will be in at approximately 15-30.

• Th Rapid PCR test results will be in at approximately 30-60 minutes.​

 

3. Why don’t you offer the nasopharyngeal specimen collection method?​

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized, as an alternative to nasopharyngeal specimen collection, anterior nares specimen by onsite self-collection or by a healthcare professional (using a round foam swab) for the novel coronavirus. This testing method is less invasive and is safer for both individuals and healthcare professionals.

 

4. Are the nasal self-swabs as accurate as the nasopharyngeal specimen collection method?

• Yes, the nasal self-swabs are as accurate as the nasopharyngeal specimen collection method.

 

5. Is the nasal self-swab method as safe as the existing nasopharyngeal specimen collection method?

• The nasal self-swab method is an acceptable alternative to the nasopharyngeal specimen collection method. First, the test is less invasive for individuals. Second, the testing method allows individuals and healthcare professionals to maintain a 6-foot distance, significantly reducing exposures and decreasing the amount of personal protective equipment required.

 

6. Will I be seen by a Physician, Nurse Practitioner, or Physician’s Assistant?

• This is strictly a specimen collection. You will not be medically evaluated when you come to be tested. If you believe you are in need of medical attention call 911, go to an emergency room, or call your doctor. When signing up for your test you will be asked questions about any symptoms you may be having amongst other questions. These are in place strictly for reporting purposes, not for an evaluation.

 

7. Do I have to be local to Las Vegas to test?

• We can test any person from any location

 

8. Will you bill my private insurance?

• We currently do not bill insurance directly for COVID testing, however you could be able to submit the receipt and results to your insurance. It is between you and your insurance company whether your test fees will be covered or not. For some of the information you will need when submitting to insurance, CLICK HERE.

 

9. What test can I use for travel?

• The ultimate resource of what test is appropriate for your travel is the governing body of the destination itself. We highly encourage you to seek out the information yourself through the various government official websites rather than relying on businesses to advise you. If testing is required and what tests are required are changing by the day all over the world. OptimuMedicine is not responsible if the patient orders the wrong test or if testing requirements change. The PCR test is the most common test used for travel today, however the NAAT test is becoming more common due to the accurate rapid results. Again do your research.

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10. Can I pay cash?

• Unfortunately, at this time you cannot pay in cash. We require a credit card when booking online.

 

11. Can I walk in or make an appointment over the phone?

• At this time we are only booking tests online. We do not allow walk ins for safety reasons.

 

12. Can I get a refund?

• There are no refunds within 48 hours of your test. Cancellations that occur greater than 48 hours will be subject to a $15 processing fee.

 

13. Can you put my passport on the results?

• Yes. When going through the booking process there is a location to enter your passport number and we will include it in your results.

For additional questions, email covid@optimumedicine.com or call 702.302.4569.

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14. Do you provide a stamp on the results?

Yes, you must wait for your results and a lab technician will stamp it and hand it to you once it’s complete. The stamp states the provider, NPI number, as well as testing location.