COVID-19 Testing at Medcan
Knowing if you’re infected with COVID-19 is important, both to protect your friends and family and to limit community spread. Testing not only helps to reduce the transmission of the virus, but actively informs the public health actions that are put in place by our government.
Whether you’re curious if you’ve had COVID-19 in the past, think you may be currently infected, or just want peace of mind before travelling or visiting a loved one, Medcan offers a range of tests to suit your specific needs.
COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Amplification Test
Our Nucleic Acid Amplification Test detects genetic material (mRNA) specific to the COVID-19 virus. It is intended to be used for screening and diagnostic purposes with overall test sensitivity at 92.9%.
This test is perfect for anyone traveling outside of the country and returning to Canada within 72 hours. It is accepted for entry into the United States and Canada as well as other countries you may be traveling to.
Our Nucleic Acid Amplification Test is conducted by nasal or throat swab – result turnaround time is within 30 minutes.
COVID-19 PCR Testing: Powered by Switch Health
We provide fast, safe and reliable PCR testing in partnership with Switch Health—a leader in COVID-19 testing. This type of test is considered the considered the gold standard for COVID-19 testing as it provides a more definitive answer as to whether or not an individual is infected with the virus.
Whether you choose to test in-clinic at Medcan, or in-home with the assistance of a nurse, you’ll enjoy same- or next-day results*—essential for those planning to travel or requiring time-sensitive reporting.
Alternatively, those experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms can now self-test in the comfort of home with our new At-Home PCR Collection Kits—convenient and portable COVID-19 tests that can be fully self-administered with the virtual guidance of a Switch Health nurse. Results are shared on the Switch Heath portal within 3-5 days. Learn more about how these tests work here.
COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
Our asymptomatic Rapid Antigen tests, are quick and affordable nasal swab tests that provide early detection of COVID-19 viral proteins. Offering results in just 15 minutes, this type of testing is optimal for those planning to travel**, or for clients looking for quick reassurance.***
Include it as an add-on to your Annual Health Assessment or schedule a standalone appointment. If you’d like to book a Rapid Antigen test on the same day as another appointment at Medcan, please be sure to book your test 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
COVID-19 IgG Antibody Testing
Unlike our other COVID-19 tests, which determine if you’re currently infected, our COVID-19 IgG antibody test (also known as serology testing) reveals if you’ve previously contracted the virus. It involves drawing a sample of blood to identify a type of antibody called immunoglobulin G (IgG)—a protein in the body that’s produced in the later stages of an infection. If you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, your body will typically produce this antibody.
For workplace COVID-19 testing options, please contact our team at CorporateSales@Medcan.com.
*Medcan clients will be required to register for the Switch Health Patient Portal to allow for the requisition of their PCR test, and for results reporting. Same- or next-day reporting of test results is provided solely through the Switch Health portal, and results will be shared before 11:59 p.m. the following day. There may be circumstances which are out of Medcan’s and Switch Health’s control where laboratory turnaround times are greater than next day. On such rare occurrences, Medcan will not provide reimbursements for late results, although we will make every effort to notify you of such delays. Rare occurrences include inconclusive results where multiple testing is required, and where the viral load is too low to detect. In the event that you test positive for COVID-19, you will be contacted by a physician from Switch Health to discuss your results and next steps. Switch Health uses a test approved by Health Canada. The test provides a relative measure of viral quantity in a specimen. In the event that you test positive and the quantity reported is lower, certain Public Health units may require a confirmatory test
**We advise clients to consult with their airline to determine testing requirements.
***Rapid Antigen testing is used for screening purposes only and should NOT be used for diagnosis of COVID-19 infection in symptomatic individuals or individuals with known close contact with a positive COVID-19 case. Rapid Antigen testing does not prevent someone from getting COVID-19. Rapid Antigen testing can be thought of as an additional screening tool, and does not replace public health measures such as symptom screening, physical distancing, masking and hand hygiene.