Get Accurate COVID Test Results with Reliable Testing

At Catalyst Medical Group, we understand that accurate COVID-19 testing is essential for keeping our community safe and informed. The reliability of your COVID-19 test results depends on several factors, including the type of test, when the test is taken in relation to exposure or symptom onset, and the quality of the sample collected. Our team is committed to using best practices and up-to-date protocols to ensure you receive the most accurate results possible.

We provide two primary types of COVID-19 tests to detect active infection:

●PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Tests:
Often referred to as the gold standard, PCR tests are highly sensitive and specific, making them the most reliable option for diagnosing COVID-19. At Catalyst Medical Group, our skilled staff ensures proper sample collection and timely testing to maximize accuracy. However, it’s important to note that testing too early or too late during an infection, or improper sample collection, can affect results.

●Antigen (Rapid) Tests:
Antigen tests offer quick results and are especially helpful for screening individuals who may be contagious. While these tests are faster, they can be less sensitive than PCR tests, particularly in individuals without symptoms or with lower viral loads. We often recommend serial (repeated) antigen testing for certain situations to improve detection in high-risk or symptomatic patients.

●Understanding Your Results
Both PCR and antigen tests can occasionally produce false negatives (missing an actual infection) or false positives (indicating infection when there isn’t one). That’s why our healthcare providers may advise repeat or confirmatory testing, especially if you have symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19.

The accuracy of rapid antigen tests depends on several factors, including when the test is performed, whether symptoms are present, and the specific test used. At Catalyst Medical Group, we recommend rapid testing within the first few days of symptom onset, when the viral load is typically highest. In symptomatic patients, these tests usually detect infection accurately. However, rapid tests are generally less sensitive than laboratory-based PCR tests, meaning that a negative result does not always rule out COVID-19—especially if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus.

If your rapid test is negative, but you have symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19, we may recommend follow-up PCR testing for confirmation. PCR tests are more sensitive and can provide a more definitive answer in these situations. For those without symptoms, rapid tests are still a helpful screening tool, but there is a higher chance of a false negative. If you are testing for travel, work, or after a known exposure, repeated testing over several days (serial testing) may improve accuracy. Our team can advise you on the best testing strategy based on your specific situation.

At Catalyst Medical Group, we understand that questions about the cost of COVID-19 testing are important to our patients. The price of a COVID-19 test at our clinic can depend on several factors, including the type of test you need (PCR or rapid antigen), your insurance coverage, and your reason for testing.

●Insurance Coverage
If you have health insurance, many insurance plans may still cover COVID-19 testing, though coverage varies and may require a copayment, especially now that pandemic-era emergency declarations have ended. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your appointment at Catalyst Medical Group to confirm your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

●Uninsured Patients
If you do not have insurance, please let us know. In some cases, we may be able to direct you to community resources or provide information about local public health programs that offer free or low-cost testing options. The cost for self-pay COVID-19 testing will be provided upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.

●Other Considerations
Some situations—such as testing for travel, employment, or event clearance—may not be covered by insurance. If you require testing for these purposes, please ask our staff about the pricing for your specific needs.

When preparing for a COVID-19 test, there are several important steps you can take to ensure your appointment goes smoothly and that you receive the most accurate results from Dr. Padmini Bhadriraju, MD.

Before Your Appointment:
●Confirm your appointment: Double-check your appointment time and location with Catalyst Medical Group. Ask whether your test will take place in the office, at a drive-through, or at another designated site.
●Bring necessary documents: Make sure to have a valid form of identification and your health insurance card, if applicable.
●Notify us of symptoms or exposure: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have recently been exposed, please inform D. Padmini ahead of your visit so we can take appropriate precautions for your safety and the safety of others.

On the Day of Your Test:
●Prepare for your test: If you are scheduled for a saliva-based test, avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes before your appointment, as these activities may affect your test results. For nasal swab tests, follow any specific instructions provided by Catalyst Medical Group.
●Practice safety measures: Wear a well-fitting mask to your appointment and maintain social distancing while waiting for your test.
●Update us on any changes: If you develop new symptoms or your condition worsens before your appointment, please contact Catalyst Medical Group right away.

After Your Test:
●Understand your results: Make sure you know how and when you’ll receive your test results. Ask Dr. Padmini if you should self-isolate and what your next steps should be, based on your symptoms or exposure.
●Follow guidelines: Carefully follow any instructions provided by Catalyst Medical Group to ensure the effectiveness of your testing process and to help keep yourself and our community healthy.

For more information about health and wellness services, contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Edinburg TX, and Mission TX. We serve patients from Edinburg TX, McAllen TX, San Juan TX, Alamo TX, Pharr TX, Palmhurst TX, Mission TX, Alton TX and Palmview TX.