COVID-19 SALIVA PCR TESTING FROM THE COMFORT OF HOME.

Frequently asked questions

How many test kits can I purchase?

You can purchase as many test kits as you like.

Can I take the test whenever I want?

You can take this test when you need it. Before you take the test, you must complete the health assessment and get a lab order.

What is a PCR test and why is it preferred? Is this a rt-PCR test?

A PCR test is a type of "molecular diagnostic test". It is performed in a high complexity laboratory on special machines that are designed to detect the presence of viral RNA particles. If the particles are detected, the test is considered positive. PCR testing is the gold standard and is the most accurate and is more likely to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 than other tests on the market. A PCR test is most likely to tell you that you have the virus when you do and to tell you that you do not have the virus when you don't. Please note, this test is a real time PCR test, also called rt-PCR.

Why should I consider PCR testing over antigen testing?

PCR testing is much more sensitive than most antigen tests. Antigen tests usually have a sensitivity of approximately 80% whereas our PCR test is 98% sensitive. This means that an antigen test will not detect that you have the virus up to 20% of the time even though you do, whereas a PCR test will not detect it only 2% of the time on average. The PCR test is the most sensitive testing option available today.

How does the test work? What does it measure?

The test determines whether you are currently infected by testing for the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in your saliva. It does this by detecting unique genetic RNA markers that are specific to the virus. This is not an antibody test.

Is this test different from tests available at hospitals and doctor’s offices?

This is the same testing technology that is used in the hospital setting. Most of the tests currently available use a nasopharyngeal swab. This test uses a simple saliva sample to test for COVID-19.

Why do I need to complete a health assessment and get a lab order before I can take this test?

The Emergency Use Authorization for this test requires a health assessment before you can get a lab order. In order to get a lab order you must also answer specific health-related questions that are required for COVID testing.

Are my COVID test results shared with my state?

COVID test results reporting is required in every state. The required information will be shared on your behalf to your state as required by law.

Is my health information safe and protected?

YES! Protecting your personal health information is the NUMBER ONE priority of AZOVA. AZOVA maintains HIPPA, SOC2, and HITRUST data security certifications. These certifications require an ongoing security audit process on all AZOVA systems.

Are these test kits covered by insurance?

COVID testing through AZOVA is a self-pay service. We do not bill insurance. We will provide you with a receipt for your lab order. You can provide this along with your receipt from where you purchased your kit and submit it to your insurance company. This is not a guarantee that your insurance will cover the cost of the test. Whether or not your insurance will cover the cost of the test is up to your insurance provider. You can use most HSA or FSA cards to purchase a COVID test, however reimbursement is up to your employer.

I received my test kit, how do I take the test?

Follow the instructions inside your test kit to first get an electronic lab order and then complete the instructions to take your saliva sample. You must also register your test kit ID number to link your sample and get your lab results.

When should I register my test kit?

Register your test kit AFTER you have requested a lab order and when you are actually taking your test. The date and time that you register your kit will be listed as the collection date on your lab result. This may be important when you are traveling and need a specific testing time to be documented.

How do I collect my saliva sample?

Follow the instructions provided with the kit to collect a saliva sample.

Do I need a test kit with video observation services?

Observation during testing is required for travel to certain locations and for participation on some athletic teams. The video observation service enables verification that the person who is taking the test is actually the person whose sample is sent to the lab. If you are traveling please check the state or country that you are going to and determine what the requirements are for that location.

Is there an expiration date on the test kit?

Yes. Check the “collect saliva by” date listed on the sticker on the saliva collection device to see the expiration date of your device. The test kit has a shelf life of 24 months.

Is there an expedited option? What is the fastest way to get my results?

The reporting time is fastest when you purchase the COVID saliva PCR test kit with video observation. You can choose to use the video observation service or not, but will get your results a little faster.

How quickly will I receive my COVID-19 test results and how do I get them?

Once you send your kit back to the lab (next day shipping is included where available), if you purchased the test kit with video observation services, you can expect your results within 24 to 48 hours from the time the lab receives your kit. If you purchased the test kit without video observation services, you can expect your results within 24 to 72 hours from the time the lab receives your test. You will receive a secure email and/or SMS with a link to view and share your results.

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

When you purchase an at home COVID saliva PCR test kit, you can take it with you and complete your test from anywhere. Drop off at the nearest UPS store on the SAME day that you provide your sample.

Can you ship to a PO Box?

No. We cannot ship to a PO Box. Please provide a physical address for us to ship your kit to.

Do I need to take my sample to the UPS store on the same day that I provide my saliva sample?

Yes. Be sure to take your test early enough to get it to the UPS store before the cutoff time for UPS next day air.
Take your sample to an actual UPS store, not a dropbox. If you take it to a dropbox, it may not be shipped the same day. You can find a local UPS store here.
Be sure to call your local UPS store ahead of time to find out if they have pick up for next day air and to find out the cut off time for next day delivery. If you need video observation, schedule your video observation early enough in the day to get your sample to the UPS store before the cut off time.

How long is my sample stable for?

Your sample is stable for 72 hours from the time you take it and should be processed within 72 hours from the time you registered your kit. Register your kit at the SAME time you take the sample.