FDA Authorized Testing for COVID-19 Antibodies

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get the COVID-19 antibody test?

Stop wondering. Get Answers. If you experienced COVID-19 symptoms more than 10 days ago you are eligible for COVID-19 antibody testing. The test will determine if you were exposed to COVID-19 and may indicate immunity.

How does the test work?

COVID-19 antibody testing is a blood test that checks for the presence of IgG antibodies your body makes when exposed to COVID-19. The presence of IgG antibodies provide “protection” which could mean that a person is considered immune or “protected” from future infection if positive for IgG antibodies. (even if non symptomatic) This test will be used to help identify those who have already been infected (even if non symptomatic) and those who may have immunity from COVID-19.

The test is a standard blood test to see if you have IgG antibodies. It is FDA sanctioned via FDA Policy for Diagnostic Tests for Coronavirus Disease-2019, and will be run using either Abbott or EUROIMMUN equipment. The test typically turns positive 14 days after symptoms begin.

Why get tested?

To know whether or not you personally have already been exposed to COVID-19 and have developed immunity. It is also extremely helpful for society to know who in the population has been infected and has developed immunity. This will potentially help guide policy decisions by knowing a more accurate number of cases that were mild or asymptomatic and what percent of society has developed immunity already.

What do I need to do before getting testing?

As long as you have not had COVID19 symptoms in the past 24-48 hours you are eligible to receive antibody testing. A doctors testing order is required before testing can be performed. The test must be performed in-person. We offer two options for testing either at your home/office or at a LabCorp location of your choosing. We recommend making an appointment at the LabCorp location of your choosing.

You MUST be symptom free when you arrive for your appointment and you must also wear a mask. They will check your temperature to make sure you don’t have a fever. You will get your results results virtually in 3-5 business days. Additional Lab Testing information can be found in this document.

How is that different than the nasal swab?

The nasal swab checks for an active infection by testing for the presence of the virus itself in your nose. The antibody testing is checking your blood to see if your immune system has been exposed to the virus previously and made (protective) antibodies against it.

What if my COVID-19 antibody test is positive?

A positive test means you have had the virus in the past, at least two weeks prior to the test and that your body has antibodies to the virus. We think it is likely that you have some immunity to the virus, but we don’t know this for sure. We also don’t know how long the antibodies last in your system.

Does this mean I am immune to COVID-19?

At this time we know testing positive for antibodies indicates you were exposed to the virus and your body as made antibodies. These antibodies are thought to be protective against future infection, however their protection is unknown at this time. Testing positive does not currently indicate you can not be re-infected or transmit the virus to others.

How long does my immunity last?

This is unknown for COVID-19. For other viruses it typically lasts months to years.

What if my COVID-19 antibody test is negative?

A negative test means that antibodies were not detected in your system. Either you have never been infected, your infection was recent (in the last 14 days), or you may have had the infection but your immune system did not produce antibodies (due to weakened immunity or for other reasons).

How much does it cost? Do you take insurance?

Testing with COVIDtestingCalifornia.com is not covered by insurance. Some labs are offering COVID testing with $0 copay or “free” with no upfront costs. However, this does not mean the test is free. It is unknown at this time if patients will receive additional bills from this testing. To avoid any confusion we do not contract with insurance and we bill all testing up front. No additional fees will be incurred after testing. All fees are paid upfront.

If you’d like to have your testing covered we suggest you contact your primary care provider to order your testing.

Does this mean I can ignore social distancing guidelines if I have antibodies?

Please following all social distancing and shelter in place guidelines as indicated by your county. You should continue to wash your hands, limit your social interactions and wear a mask if directed.

How accurate is the testing? Is it FDA approved?

It is 100% sensitive and 99% specific meaning if you test positive for having the antibodies it is extremely likely that you do. These tests are approved under the FDA Emergency Use Authorization program.

How do I get the results?

You will be able to get your results online within 3-5 business days of your test. Our doctor will send you your results through a secure dashboard or by secure email.

I added on additional testing for blood sugar, inflammation and vitamin D status. Is there a way to get more information about these results?

Appointments with our functional medicine doctors and nutritionists are available for an additional fee to review additional lab markers and help you create a proactive plan for your health and wellness. You may also bring these to your primary care doctor for review.

I did not receive my results/test order, or other communication. Who do I contact?

Please note it may take up to FIVE BUSINESS DAYS for your results to be posted. If you draw on a Friday your results may not post until end of the next week. If it has been 6+ days with no results please email concierge@covidtestingcalifornia.com. If you have already emailed us please allow up to 72 hours for a response.