CoVID-19 Testing & Options
Although there are so many uncertainties amidst the current pandemic, you can be rest assured that Morrill County Community Hospital is here for all your CoVID-19 testing and treatment needs.
How the MCCH Drive Thru CoVID-19 testing with QR-Code process works
1. Choose a reason for testing
a. If you have health insurance, start by contacting your healthcare provider and/or clinic and have them send your laboratory requisition/order via fax to (308) 262-1210 before scheduling your appointment to avoid result delays.
b. If you do not have health insurance you can choose to Self-Pay (cost of test is expected at the time of service) and/or contact Panhandle Public Health District (308) 487-3600 for free CoVID-19 testing options.
c. If you are taking a CoVID-19 RT-PCR test for travel purposes, cost of test is expected at the time of service. Please check and verify all travel requirements with your airline, state and/or country of destination before scheduling your appointment.
2. Complete on-line registration and scheduling. Registration must be completed in the patient’s (traveler’s) name – be sure to provide accurate demographic information to prevent delays in result reporting. If you need further assistance, please contact us at (308) 262-1616.
3. Go to the testing location at your designated time slot and remain in your vehicle and follow instructions posted at the site.
4. Show your appointment confirmation and provide a photo ID (a valid State ID or driver’s license or Passport) and insurance card.
5. MCCH team member will collect a nasopharyngeal swab sample. Patients under the age of 19 below will need a parent or legal guardian with them.
6. We’ll forward your results to your ordering provider electronically and/or via fax (if applicable) and we’ll text and email a QR Code with a secure link to your results.
I’m sick and need a CoVID-19 test!
If you are sick and experiencing CoVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to CoVID-19 or have a cold or flu symptoms we have a couple of NAAT/RT-PCR tests for you.
I’m traveling and need a CoVID-19 NAAT/RT-PCR test with QR Code!
Travel requirements vary by airline and/or destination. It is your responsibility to select the correct test type for your destination and to get tested at the proper time to get a valid result. Also, CoVID-19 testing for travel purposes is NOT COVERED by most health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. However, we can provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance and request reimbursement.
I think I had CoVID-19 in the past…
I got the CoVID-19 vaccine…
Do I have antibodies?
It is important to remember that the CoVID-19 antibody test should NOT be used alone to confirm a diagnosis of a current infection. It should also NOT be used to determine or validate the effectiveness of a CoVID-19 vaccine. CoVID-19 antibody testing is NOT COVERED by most health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. However, we can provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance and request reimbursement.
If you need further assistance, please contact us at (308) 262-1616.
Test Results Turnaround Time
Same day results. Test results turnaround time is based on when the sample arrives at the clinical laboratory. If your sample was collected & registered before 11:00 AM results should be tentatively available by 3:00 PM. Samples collected & registered before 4:00 PM will be tentatively available by 8:00 PM. Please note that all time provided are estimates that we do our absolute best to meet. Due to situations outside our control, we cannot guarantee results by a certain timeframe.
CoVID-19 Testing Options
SARS-CoV-2, RNA (NAAT/RT-PCR) $185
This NAAT/RT-PCR CoVID-19 testing option is for patients who may have potential exposure, confirmed exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes CoVID-19 or showing symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, difficulty breathing, etc.) consistent with CoVID-19. Testing of respiratory sample (nasopharyngeal swab) will help find out if you have CoVID-19.
This is also the test that is required for travel. Please note that CoVID-19 testing for travel is NOT COVERED by most health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. Results are available within the same day and provided electronically including distribution of a QR Code.
TEST NOTES: Clinical diagnosis and/or therapy should NOT be based solely on this Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, RT-PCR molecular assay, as sensitivity of the test depends on the timing of the specimen collection and the quality of the specimen. The result should be considered in conjunction with patient's history and clinical presentation and/or additional diagnostic tests.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Testing is performed using the BD SARS-CoV-2 Reagents on the BD MAX System. This test utilizes primers and probe targeting RNA from the nucleocapsid phosphoprotein gene (N1 and N2 regions) of SARS-CoV-2 and the human Rnase P gene. This test is only approved for testing human nasopharyngeal swab specimen and authorized under U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Fact Sheets for this EUA test can be found at the following links:
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/136815/download
For Patients:
https://www.fda.gov/media/136814/download
SARS-CoV-2 & Influenza A+B, RNA (NAAT/RT-PCR) $220
This NAAT/RT-PCR testing option will simultaneously detect three virus: Influenza A and Influenza B that cause influenza (flu) and SARS-CoV-2 that causes CoVID-19 in nasopharyngeal swab. This test is best if you are symptomatic and want to see what respiratory illness you are dealing. Results are available within the same day and provided electronically including distribution of a QR Code.
TEST NOTES: Clinical diagnosis and/or therapy should NOT be based solely on this Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, RT-PCR molecular assay, as sensitivity of the test depends on the timing of the specimen collection and the quality of the specimen. The result should be considered in conjunction with patient's history and clinical presentation and/or additional diagnostic tests.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR OUTPATIENT TESTING ONLY: Testing is performed using the BD SARS-CoV-2/FLU Reagents on the BD MAX System. This test utilizes multiplexed primers and probe targeting RNA from the nucleocapsid phosphoprotein gene (N1 and N2 regions) of SARS-CoV-2, a conserved region of the M1 gene for Influenza A, conserved regions of the M1 gene & HA gene for Influenza B, and the human Rnase P gene. This test is only approved for testing nasopharyngeal specimens authorized under U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Fact Sheets for this EUA test can be found at the following links:
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/145925/download
For Patients:
https://www.fda.gov/media/145926/download
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR CLINICS, EMERGENCY AND INPATIENT TESTING ONLY: Testing is performed using the cobas SARS-CoV-2 & Influenza A/B assay on the cobas Roche LIAT Analyzer. The assay targets both the ORF1 a/b non-structural region and nucleocapsid protein gene that are unique to SARS-CoV-2, a well-conserved region of the matrix gene of Influenza A and the non-structural protein gene of Influenza B. This test is only approved for testing human nasopharyngeal swab specimens and authorized under U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Fact Sheets for this EUA test can be found at the following links:
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/142191/download
For Patients:
https://www.fda.gov/media/142192/download
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid IgG Antibody $70
This test is an antibody test and detects IgG (nucleocapsid) antibodies that develop in most patients 1 to 3 weeks after CoVID-19 infection. IgG (n) remain in the blood after an infection has passed and indicate that you may have had CoVID-19 in the recent past and have developed antibodies that may protect you from future infection. It is unknown at this point how much protection antibodies might provide against reinfection. This test is NOT COVERED by health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. Results are available within the same day and provided electronically including distribution of a QR Code.
RESULT INTERPRETATION:
NEGATIVE: No antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein detected. Negative results may occur in serum collected too soon following infection, in immunosuppressed patients, or in patients with mild or asymptomatic disease. This test does not rule out active and/or recent CoVID-19 infection. Follow-up testing with a molecular test for SARS-CoV-2 is recommended in symptomatic patients.
POSITIVE: Antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein detected. Results suggest recent or prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Correlation with epidemiologic risk factors and other clinical and laboratory findings is recommended. Serologic results should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Protective immunity cannot be inferred based on these results alone. False-positive results may occur due to cross-reactivity from pre-existing antibodies or other possible causes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Testing is performed using the Abbott Architect SARS-CoV-2 IgG reagent assay from Abbott, which has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Fact Sheets for this EUA test can be found at the following links:
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/137381/download
For Patients:
https://www.fda.gov/media/137382/download
SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgM & IgG Antibody $140
This test is an antibody test. IgM (spike) is usually the first antibody produced by the immune system when a virus attacks. A positive IgM (spike) indicates that you may have been infected and that your immune system has started responding to the virus. A positive IgM (spike) could also indicated that you have been recently vaccinated and your immune system has started responding to the vaccination. The IgG (spike) antibody test is designed to detect IgG antibodies specific for the virus spike protein that indicates prior infection and/or CoVID-19 vaccination. This test is NOT COVERED by health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. Results are available within the same day and provided electronically including distribution of a QR Code.
RESULT INTERPRETATION:
NEGATIVE: No IgM and/or IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein detected. Negative results may occur in serum collected too soon following infection, in immunosuppressed patients, or in patients with mild or asymptomatic disease. This test does not rule out active and/or recent CoVID-19 infection or vaccination. Follow-up testing with a molecular test for SARS-CoV-2 is recommended in symptomatic patients.
POSITIVE: IgM and/or IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein detected. Results suggest recent or prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or vaccination. No minimum antibody level or threshold has been established to indicate long term, protective immunity against reinfection. Correlation with epidemiologic risk factors and other clinical and laboratory findings is recommended. Serologic results should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose recent SARS-CoV-2 infection. False-positive results may occur due to cross-reactivity from pre-existing antibodies or other possible causes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Testing is performed using the Abbott Architect Advise DX SARS-CoV-2 IgM and Advise DX SARS-CoV-2 IgG II reagent assays from Abbott, BioFire Respiratory Panel 2.1 reagent on the BioFire FilmArray 2.0 system Fact Sheets for this EUA test can be found at the following links:
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/142938/download
https://www.fda.gov/media/146369/download
For Healthcare Providers:
https://www.fda.gov/media/142939/download
https://www.fda.gov/media/146370/download
Respiratory Panel 2.1 (RP2.1) $762
(Limited quantity, this test for MCCH ED, Inpatients & Clinics use only)
This multiplexed NAAT/RT-PCR testing option will simultaneously identify nucleic acids from 22 different viruses and 4 bacteria respiratory organisms including SARS-CoV-2 that causes CoVID-19 in nasopharyngeal swab. This test is best if you are symptomatic and want to see what respiratory illness you are experiencing.
TEST NOTES: Clinical diagnosis and/or therapy should NOT be based solely on this Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, RT-PCR molecular assay, as sensitivity of the test depends on the timing of the specimen collection and the quality of the specimen. The result should be considered in conjunction with patient's history and clinical presentation and/or additional diagnostic tests.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Testing is performed using the BioFire Respiratory Panel 2.1 reagent on the BioFire FilmArray 2.0 system. This test utilizes primers and probe targeting RNA from the spike protein (S) gene and membrane protein (M) gene of SARS-CoV-2. This test is only approved for testing human nasopharyngeal swab specimen and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) De Novo authorized test for CoVID-19.
Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
Testing for Travel
If traveling, how soon should I take my test before I leave?
Travel requirements vary, it is your responsibility to check and verify with your airline and/or destination to make sure you’re tested with the correct test and at the right time before departing. Getting tested too early or too late, or getting the wrong type of test, may result in needing to self-quarantine and/or avoid being turned away at your destination.
What is a QR Code?
QR codes are a type of barcode that contain various forms of data. Many destinations are now requiring a QR code to view CoVID-19 test results. These CoVID-19 QR Codes allow airport or immigration personnel to quickly and accurately verify passenger’s CoVID-19 status. Travelers are currently being asked to, or are required to, provide QR codes for travel to their country of destination.
Does your CoVID-19 Laboratory Report have a QR Code?
Morrill County Community Hospital Clinical Laboratory Department partnered with GoRev (Venture Software) to provide patients with CoVID-19 results that include a HIPAA compliant QR Code for quick access to their testing results. The QR code can be accessed via: text message, email and/or test result document.
Does health insurance pay for CoVID-19 testing for travel purposes?
No, CoVID-19 testing for travel purposes is NOT COVERED by most health insurance carriers and must be paid for out of pocket. However, we can provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance and request reimbursement. You should check with your health plan to confirm coverage before scheduling a test.
Registration and Scheduling
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, all laboratory tests must be scheduled. Every individual who wants a CoVID-19 test with QR Code must make an appointment online. If you do not have internet access and need further assistance, please contact us at (308) 262-1616.
Cost and Payment
Is there an out-of-pocket cost for patients with insurance?
Patients with insurance should not have any out-of-pocket costs for a covered CoVID-19 test, but you should check with your health plan to confirm coverage before scheduling a test. If you have health insurance, you must (1) have a Doctor’s Order for the CoVID-19 test with Diagnosis Code or reason why the CoVID-19 test is medically necessary, (2) bring the Doctor’s Order with you or have your healthcare provider fax the order to (308) 262-1210 before you schedule your appointment, (3) bring your health insurance card and (4) bring a valid photo ID (state ID, driver’s license and/or passport) with you to the test site. You will be responsible for any patient cost share as determined by your health insurance.
Is there an out-of-pocket cost for patients without insurance?
Yes, if you do not have insurance you can choose to Self-Pay (cost of test is expected at the time of service) and/or contact Panhandle Public Health District (308) 487-3600 for free CoVID-19 testing options.
Can I pay for the test instead of submitting to insurance?
Yes, you can choose to Self-Pay for your test with a debit/credit/FSA/HSA card, cost of test is expected at the time of service.
Taking the test
How is my sample for testing collected?
For active infection tests: a hospital and/or clinic staff will collect a nasopharyngeal swab from you. A swab is inserted into one nostril to the nasopharynx. The swab is then rotated around the entire inside of the nasopharynx at least five times. For immune response tests: a hospital and/or clinic staff will collect a blood sample via venipuncture (blood draw) from the patient’s arm.
Where are the tests processed and performed?
Both the active infection test and immune response offered at MCCH Clinical Laboratory are processed and tested in-house (Bridgeport, NE).
What is a false negative CoVID-19 test result?
It is possible for this test to give a negative result that is incorrect (known as a false negative) in some people with COVID-19. This means that you could possibly still have COVID-19 even though the test is negative. If this is the case, your healthcare provider will consider the test result together with all other aspects of your medical history (such as symptoms, possible exposures, and geographical location of places you have recently traveled) in deciding how to care for you. It is important that you work with your healthcare provider to help you understand the next steps you should take.
What is a false positive CoVID-19 test result?
There is a very small chance that this test can give a positive result that is wrong (known as a false positive result). Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine how best to care for you based on the test results along with medical history and your symptoms.
Is MCCH Clinical Laboratory certified, permitted to perform CoVID-19 Testing?
Yes, MCCH Clinical Laboratory is fully compliant and accredited by COLA and CLIA to perform moderate and highly complex laboratory tests.
Getting Results
How and when will I received my CoVID-19 test results?
You will receive your CoVID-19 test results the same day. Test results turnaround time is based on when the sample arrives at the clinical laboratory. If your sample was collected and registered before 11:00 AM results should be tentatively available by 3:00 PM. Samples collected and registered before 4:00 PM will be tentatively available by 8:00 PM. Please note that all time provided are estimates that we do our absolute best to meet. Due to situations outside our control, we cannot guarantee results by a certain timeframe.
- For patients with laboratory orders from their healthcare provider & opted to bill their insurance
Your CoVID-19 laboratory test results will be automatically be sent to your healthcare provider that ordered the test once your results are finalized. Please allow some time for your healthcare provider to review your results. Your healthcare provider or a member of his/her clinic staff will contact you regarding your CoVID-19 test results. Patients will also be notified of their CoVID-19 test results with QR Code via text message and email. - For patients who opted to self-pay
Patients will be notified of their CoVID-19 test results with QR Code via text message and email. We highly recommend and suggest that you discuss and share your results with your healthcare provider so they can help you understand exactly what your results mean for your health.
Will MCCH Clinical Laboratory share my CoVID-19 test results to public health officials?
Yes, because of the ongoing public-health crisis, Morrill County Community Hospital is required by federal, state law and local public health authorities to submit CoVID-19 test results to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and other public health authorities.
