Getting tested for COVID-19 is the only way to confirm whether you are infected with the coronavirus. Since there are lots of questions surrounding COVID-19 testing, like where can you get tested, who can get a test, and how much does it cost, we’ve put together this COVID-19 testing FAQ guide to help answer your questions. 

What should do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should self-isolate and stay home. Next, call your healthcare provider for guidance. Decisions about who does and does not need to be tested for COVID-19 are made by your provider and local and state health departments.

If you do not have a healthcare provider and are showing COVID-19 symptoms, call 922-CARE, or call the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065 for assistance.

How can I get a COVID-19 test?

Before getting a test, call you healthcare provider for an evaluation. It's not recommended that you get a test without first speaking with your healthcare provider. If you do not have a healthcare provider, call 922-CARE.  

Rapid Test or PCR Test?

Rapid testing (antigen) differs from PCR testing (polymerase chain reaction) in what the tests detect, turnaround time, accuracy, and more. 

Rapid test: The rapid test detects protein fragments specific to the coronavirus. Turnaround time for results is quick and can be reported within 15 minutes in some cases. The rapid test can be performed in a clinic, doctor’s office, or hospital.

PCR test. The PCR test is considered a more accurate test than the rapid test. It detects genetic material (RNA) specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even in people who are asymptomatic. Turnaround time is generally between 3-5 days, but results can be returned sooner or later depending on how much volume a location is experiencing. The PCR test can be done in a clinic, doctor’s office, hospital, or your car.

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

Rochester Regional Health Immediate Care locations accept walk-in evaluations and will test only if deemed necessary by an on-site healthcare provider based on the testing criteria.   

Wilson Immediate Care
1425 Portland Avenue, Wilson Building,
Rochester, NY 14621
Weekdays 9am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 8pm
(585) 338-1200
More details

Penfield Immediate Care
2226 Penfield Road,
Penfield, NY 14526
Weekdays 9am – 6pm, weekends 9am – 3pm
(585) 388-5280
More details

Webster Immediate Care
1065 Ridge Road,
Webster, NY 14580
Weekdays 9am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 8pm
(585) 872-2273
More details

Irondequoit Immediate Care
2701 Culver Road,
Rochester, NY 14622
Weekdays 9am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 8pm
(585) 266-4000
More details

Henrietta Immediate Care
2685 East Henrietta Road,
Henrietta, NY 14467
Weekdays 9am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 8pm
(585) 444-0058
More details

Batavia Urgent Care
16 Bank Street,
Batavia, NY 14020
Weekdays 9am – 9pm, weekends 9am – 7pm
More details

For additional testing sites in your area, use the NYS Department of Health test site finder.

Who can receive a COVID-19 test?

Who can and cannot receive a COVID-19 test depends on whether a person is showing symptoms, which test site they visit, the availability of tests, and other factors. Generally, testing is determined by healthcare providers and local and state health departments.

If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, call your healthcare provider or the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065 to determine whether you can receive a COVID-19 test.

How much does a COVID-19 test cost?

According to the NYS Department of Health, COVID-19 testing at a test site run by New York State is free to all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health care provider, or by calling the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065. While the test is free, there may be a cost associated with seeing or speaking to a provider.

Always check with the testing site and your insurance in advance of being tested to confirm any costs associated with the test.

What is Antibody Testing?

Antibody testing is the testing of antibodies in your system to help determine if you have been infected with COVID-19 in the past. Rochester Regional Health Laboratories offer antibody testing, and Immediate Care locations but only as part of an urgent care visit.

Learn more about antibody testing at Rochester Regional Health  

What do I do while waiting for my test results?

Please stay at home and self-isolate while awaiting your test results. Limit your contact with people and pets, wear a face mask when others at all times, disinfect frequently touched objects, and practice proper hand hygiene.

Follow these 5 steps to help stop the spread of the coronavirus:

1. Hands - wash them often, for at least 20 seconds

2. Elbow - cough into it, not your hands

3. Face - don’t touch it

4. Space - keep a safe, 6-foot distance between yourself and others

5. Stay - home if you can, especially if you may be sick

How long does it take to get test results?

This varies depending on the test and where you are getting the test. Check with health officials for the most accurate timeline.

Typically, you will receive your test results within 3-5 days. Be sure to provide accurate contact information when registering for your COVID-19 test so you can be contacted promptly with your results.

If I test positive for COVID-19, what happens?

If you test positive, you will be contacted by your local health department and required to isolate at home. Follow up with your healthcare provider and keep them updated on your symptoms. Please limit your contact with other household members, stay home and follow all health department instructions.