CARLSBAD — A new rapid COVID-19 testing center opened Oct. 30 at The Shoppes at Carlsbad.
The Covid Clinic launched its newest location at a bus station near The Shoppes to provide drive-through service for rapid, PCR, antibody and antigen tests.
Shanelle Borders, the San Diego regional manager for Covid Clinic, said the location is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Appointments are recommended, but drive-ups are welcome.
“We had to work with the city, and the most important thing was the licensing,” Borders said of opening in Carlsbad. “We saw a need in the community. To help control the virus, I think if people have more access to testing they can prevent infecting others.”
She said the tests range from $150 to $199 with an accuracy between 96.7% to 100%. Borders said most who use rapid testing need so to return to work or travel and need the results quickly. She said results are texted and emailed to each individual within 60 minutes and are covered by insurance.
The PCR test results, though, are delivered within three to seven days. The antibody test is for those who don’t currently feel sick but want to find out if they have previously been infected and recovered from COVID-19, according to the company.
Additionally, the location will also offer strep throat and flu tests for $30 each. For those who test positive or who are negative but showing symptoms, the company also offers the ability to join a paid clinical trial in San Diego, Border said.
As for the Carlsbad location, Borders said people began lining up at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 30, but were turned away until the site opened at 1 p.m. She said they tested at least 100 people on the first day and expect to average more than 100 per day.
“Many patients are concerned about their current health and whether they’ve been exposed, or currently experiencing symptoms, the 20-minute test gives them peace of mind quickly,” said Dr. Matthew Abinante, founder and president of Covid Clinic. “And, some employers want fast testing results turnaround when someone might have inadvertently exposed other employees in the workplace. It helps companies make informed decisions about which actions to take to limit the spread of the infection.”
The Covid Clinic also has locations in San Diego, La Mesa, Chula Vista and Temecula.
