Individuals/
Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

COVID-19 FAQs

  • Tracking COVID-19 Variants

    Labcorp has been regularly tracking variants of the virus throughout the pandemic. The sensitivity of our PCR test is not impacted by these variants. We have been working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide sequencing of samples of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Our tests remain effective against variants like Omicron and Delta. This is because they are designed to identify segments of the genetic code that are the least likely to mutate. For more information on variants, see our Viral Variation 101 post or read our Guide to Variants.

    Total number of samples sequenced

    331,000 as of March 31, 2022

    Data covers the U.S. including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico

    Labcorp PCR Test performance confirmed

    Alpha (B.1.1.7, Q.1-Q.8)

    Beta (B.1.351, B.1.351.2, B.1.351.3)

    Delta (B.1.617.2)

    Epsilon (B.1.427, B.1.429)

    Eta (B.1.525)

    Gamma (P.1, P.1.1, P.1.2) 

    Iota (B.1.526)

    Kappa (B.1.617.1)

    Lambda (C.37)

    Mu (B.1.621)

    Omicron (B.1.1.529, BA.2)

    Zeta (P.2)

    For more information visit US COVID-19 Cases Caused by Variants on the CDC website. 

  • It is not yet determined what level of antibodies (to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein) correlate to immunity against developing symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 disease. Studies are underway to measure the quantitative levels of specific SARS-CoV-2 antibodies following vaccination. Such studies will provide valuable insights into the correlation between protection from vaccination and antibody levels.

  • Labcorp currently offers several options for COVID-19 tests that identify if individuals are infected or may have been infected with coronavirus. This infographic was developed to help you determine which test is right for you. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please contact your healthcare provider.

  • COVID-19 IgG antibody test collections (blood draw) are available through our patient service centers, including Labcorp at Walgreens locations. This type of COVID-19 test is for individuals who think they may have had COVID-19 and do not have symptoms. Individuals have the ability to receive the COVID-19 IgG antibody test from their doctor, in person or through a telemedicine program, and now directly using www.Labcorp.com/antibody-testing.

    Select Labcorp patient service centers also offer specimen collection for COVID-19 PCR testing to individuals who are symptom-free and who have not been exposed to COVID-19. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please consult your physician or other healthcare provider.

    * For information on how to request an at-home collection test kit to detect an active COVID-19 infection, visit Pixel by LabcorpTM.

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath; if you’ve been in contact with a person who has COVID-19; or if you have traveled recently from an area with sustained, ongoing transmission.

  • The current average time to deliver results for the COVID-19 swab test is 1-3 days from the date of specimen pickup. 

    For the COVID-19 IgG antibody test, the average delivery of test results is 1-3 days from the date of specimen pickup.

  • Yes, most of our centers remain open. For specific opening hours and locations, visit our labs and appointments page.

    • Covid-19 home kit: Cash pay price updated to $59 (current cash pay price $119 or $0 with insurance)
    • Covid-19 PSC test: Cash pay price updated to $59 (current cash pay price $119)
    • Covid-19 + Flu+ RSV home kit: Cash pay price updated to $119 (current cash pay price $169 or $0 with insurance)
    • Covid-19 Antibody test: Cash pay price updated to $69 (currently $42.13 if not covered by insurance/ $6 PWN fee with insurance)

    If the antibody test is requested through Labcorp.com, there is a $6 cost for the independent physician service that reviews all requests. If the test is ordered through a doctor or healthcare provider, the $6 fee does not apply.

  • Yes. We have set aside the first hour of each business day at our patient service centers for people 65 and older and those with serious underlying medical conditions. While we will not turn away any patient during this dedicated time, we appreciate your help in keeping these hours available for vulnerable patients to receive essential testing services.

  • Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website to learn more about how COVID-19 spreads and how to protect yourself.

  • Visit the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the most-current information. Your state and local health authorities are also good sources of information.