COVID-19 testing by SDxLabs in Pittsburgh, PA

Most of the COVID-19 testing done at SDxLabs uses a saliva sample collection method. These are self-administered, meaning after you are shown how to perform the test, you’ll do it by yourself by spitting several times into a funnel attached to a tube, and then screw on a cap to complete the test.

The 4-hour result test is done with a nasal swab. A fluid sample is collected by the patient by inserting a swab midway into their nostril, rotating the swab in a circle around the entire inside edge, and repeating the process in the other nostril. The nasal swab is then placed into a collection tube.

SDxLabs COVID-19 tests are Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). PCR technology is considered the gold standard in diagnostic testing. This is a chemical reaction that repeatedly duplicates certain targeted segments of the virus's RNA, until there's enough of it to be detected. The targeted segments are carefully selected to be unique to the COVID-19 virus, and thus absent from other genetic material that might be present in human respiratory samples. This means we can be highly certain that any reaction and duplication occurs only with genetic material from the COVID-19 virus, and that minimizes the likelihood of false positives produced.

Your test result delivery time will depend on the type of test you select. Standard PCR results will be delivered in 24 to 48 hours. Next-day PCR results will be delivered the following day. Please note, next-day PCR tests are only available Monday through Thursday. Same-day PCR results will be delivered within 4 hours. Patient results can be delivered via email by way of SDxLabs portal, fax, or USPS. The patient will select the method of delivery prior to taking the test.

Time requirements may vary based on your destination. Be sure to research when you need to get tested so you do not schedule your test too early or late. Testing too early or late could result in missing your trip or needing to self-quarantine.

Testing is available for all individuals. A parent or legal guardian must complete registration for minors. Minors or children that require assistance with the sample collection must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Yes. All tests must be scheduled in advance. SDxLabs is currently not accepting walk-in appointments. Appointments may be made for the same day if there is availability in the booking schedule.

The day of your appointment you will need to bring photo identification and insurance information, if using insurance for the test. Insurance information cannot be used for next-day and 4-hour result testing. Self-pay patients must provide payment at the time of the appointment prior to the test.

SDxLabs will bill Medicare, Medicaid, or 3rd party insurance for those experiencing symptoms or those who have been in contact with someone who has or is suspected to have COVID-19.

Patients should select a self-pay option for the following situations:

• Patients who are not symptomatic and have not come into contact with a known or suspected case
• Testing required for events or travel
• Testing for other reasons
• Result reports requiring customizations, such as a passport number included on the report

SDxLabs is located on the North Shore at 1501 Preble Avenue, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.