Frequently Asked Questions
COVID-19 PCR Test
How do I sign up for a test?
To sign up for a COVID-19 test, complete the online registration form here.
Are appointments required? How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments are required.
What type of COVID-19 test do you offer?
We perform the PCR test using the ScienCell™ SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus Real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) Detection Kit. The test is designed to detect the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. The PCR test is also referred to as the Molecular test the Nucleic Acid test. We do not offer the Rapid Test or the Antigen Test at this time.
How accurate is the test?
The PCR test is the most accurate test to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.
How does drive-through testing work?
Our facility is set up for drive-through testing. When you arrive, look for the orange cones and follow the instructions in the drive-through lane. You will remain in your car the entire time and our clinical staff will instruct you during the procedure. Your visit will take approximately 5-10 minutes.
What can I expect during the nasal swab?
The nasal swab is self-administered, meaning you will swab your own nose under the supervision of our clinical staff. We use a comfortable, shallow nasal swab technique. The nasal swab goes into your nose less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep.
What kind of swab technique do you use?
We use a front nasal swab technique that is safe and comfortable. The swab goes into the nose less than 1 inch (2.5 cm). The swab doesn't go all the way to the back of the nose.
What are the potential risks and benefits of the test?
Potential risks include:
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Possible discomfort or other complications that can happen during sample collection. -
Possible incorrect test result (see below for more information).
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The results, along with other information, can help your healthcare provider make informed recommendations about your care. -
The results of this test may help limit the spread of COVID-19 to your family and others in your community.
When will I receive my test result?
Express Appointment (Same-Day Result): Test results will be sent within 12 hours of the time we receive your nasal sample.
I need a test urgently but there are no appointments available. What should I do?
All available appointments are shown in the registration calendar. Check the calendar for appointmnents that become available as a result of rescheduling or cancellations. We are not able to take walk-ins at this time.
I'm trying to register for a test but it says "No COVID-19 testing needed at this time." What should I do?
During the registration process you will be asked the following question: "Have you been exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID-19 or visited a place where COVID-19 is spreading in the last two weeks?" To proceed with the registration process, please select this option: "There are ongoing cases of COVID-19 in my local community."
My entire family needs to get tested. How can we arrange that?
Each family member needs to complete a separate registration form and schedule an individual appointment time. It's okay if your appointments aren't in consecutive time slots, or back-to-back. On test day, the entire family can come to the drive-through testing station in the same vehicle and get tested together.
Do you allow children to be tested for COVID-19?
Yes, we perform pediatric testing. Minors must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian during the test.
How much does the test cost?
Standard Service (Next-day results):
Do you accept health insurance? Will my health insurance cover the cost of the test?
Yes, we accept all forms of health insurance. Just enter your health insurance information in the online registration form when you book your appointment.
Do you accept debit cards, credit cards, or cash?
We accept all major credit cards and debit cards. We do not accept cash payments at this time.
I am traveling out of state/out of the country, and I need a test to comply with COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Each state and country has their own COVID-19 travel guidelines and restrictions. Please check with authorities at your travel destination in order to obtain relevant guidelines for your trip.
I want to arrange testing for my school/employees/organization members, how can I do that?
We offer COVID-19 testing services to businesses, schools, and other organizations. Call 916-477-2027 or email covidtesting@molecularmatrix.com to discuss how we can serve your organization's testing needs.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, you don't need a referral from your doctor. We have a physician on staff who reviews and approves test registrations.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?
Review the CDC guidelines on what to do if you test postive for COVID-19.
Who should get tested?
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People who have symptoms of COVID-19. -
People who have had close contact (within 6 feet of an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more) with someone with confirmed COVID-19. -
People who have been asked or referred to get testing by their healthcare provider, local or state health department.
What should I do if my test result is negative?
I received the test result email but I can't open it. What should I do?
You will receive your digital result in a secure email. To open the email attachment, select "Read the Message" and choose to "Sign on with a one-time passcode." A passcode will be sent to your email address. Enter this passcode in the space provided on the browser window.
I have more questions. Who can I contact?
Call us at 916-477-2027 or email us at covidtesting@molecularmatrix.com
Where is the test location?
West Sacramento, CA
My roommates and I all need to get tested. How do we arrange that?
Each member of the household needs to complete a separate registration form and schedule an individual appointment time. It's okay if your appointments aren't in consecutive time slots, or back-to-back. On test day, the entire household can come to the drive-through testing station in the same vehicle and get tested together.
What does it mean if I have an "invalid" test result?
An invalid test result means there was an issue with your nasal sample or with the test processsing. We recommend that you schedule another test so we can recollect your sample.
How can I cancel my appointment? Do you have a cancellation policy?
I don't have health insurance. What are my options?
If you do not have health insurance or choose to not use your health insurance, you may pay for your COVID-19 test out-of-pocket for $192.50 (Standard 24-48 hour result) or $235.50 (Express same-day result). Email us to request an instant discount for out-of-pocket debit/credit payments only (Applies only to Standard tests paid for out-of-pocket. Not applicable to Standard tests covered by insurance. Not applicable to Express tests).