Over the past few months, the FDA has approved several COVID tests without a prescription so you do not have to go to a testing center to find out if you have the coronavirus. From this week you can get an antigen test at Walgreens, Walmart or CVS.
What is an antigen test?
This is not a PCR test, which is considered to be the most accurate way to test for a current infection. And it’s not an antibody test that can tell you if you’ve had COVID at some point in the past.
Instead, it tests whether there is a protein from the coronavirus. The BinaxNOW brand, which will be on store shelves this week, costs $ 23.99 for a pack of two tests; you are supposed to use both a few days apart.
A few other brands will be available soon, including the Ellume COVID-19 home key and the Quidel QuickVue. All the results promise within about 15 minutes. CVS says the Ellume costs $ 38.99 and only needs one test.
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Can it take the place of a test before the trip?
No, as you need documentation of the results, but there are home tests you can do can provide documentation. For example, BinaxNOW also makes a test you can do at home, but with a provider who guides you through the process during a video call. It costs $ 150 for a six-pack, or $ 25 per test. Labcorp makes a PCR test where you can take the sample home yourself and send the swab to their lab for results. This one is $ 119 out of pocket, but if you meet certain requirements, the company can bill your insurance or use federal funding to make it for you for free.