Strep Tests near me
in Billerica, MA

Strep Test FAQs

• How long does a strep test take in Billerica?

  A strep test usually only takes a few minutes. A throat swab is used for the strep A test, whereas a cotton swab or a urine sample is used for the strep B test. Your healthcare provider can tell you how long your strep test will take based on the procedure used.

• What happens if you test positive for group B strep?

  Adults seldom show symptoms or get sick with Group B strep, but it can be dangerous for newborns. Antibiotics are commonly given to pregnant women who test positive for group B strep to keep the illness from spreading to the baby as it goes through the birth canal. Because the infant will not be exposed to germs in the delivery canal, antibiotics are not required for women with group B strep who are having a scheduled Cesarean section.

• How much does a strep test cost in Billerica?

  A strep test's price is influenced by a variety of criteria, including provider rates, the type of test (throat swab, vaginal swab, or urinalysis), geographic region, and if your health plan covers this treatment. Getting an estimate from your health insurance company or the step test company is the quickest way to figure out how much a strep test will cost.

• Does insurance cover strep testing in Billerica?

  Most health insurance companies will cover the cost of strep testing, particularly if your doctor believes it is medically necessary based on your symptoms and current health state. Contact your insurance carrier directly to learn more about your coverage and benefits, or ask your strep testing provider if they can do a complimentary insurance benefits check on your behalf.

• How do they test for strep throat?

  The strep throat A test can be conducted to determine whether or not you have strep throat. Your doctor will initially ask you to sit back in your chair and open your mouth wide. Then, using a long cotton swab, they'll extract a tissue sample from the back of your throat. This testing approach is used in both the rapid and normal strep A tests.

• How long does it take to get strep test results?

  The rapid test for strep A takes 10 to 20 minutes to complete, whereas the standard test takes 24 to 48 hours. A strep B test normally takes 24 to 48 hours to produce results. Your doctor or the strep test provider can give you a clearer idea of when you should expect your results.

• What is a rapid strep test?

  A rapid strep test can only be used to diagnose group A strep. This test looks for antigens, which are chemicals that elicit an immune response. A rapid strep test is similar to a standard strep test in that it delivers you results in minutes rather than days. A throat swab was used as a test.

• How accurate is the rapid strep test?

  A fast strep test can provide a trustworthy result. Some practitioners may order a classic strep A test if the quick test results are negative and the patient has multiple symptoms of strep throat. A standard strep A throat culture test is more accurate than a rapid strep A test, but it takes longer to acquire the results.

• Where should I get a strep test in Billerica?

  Strep testing is available from a variety of healthcare providers, including your primary care physician and urgent care clinics. If you're pregnant, a specialist such as a midwife or an OB-GYN may do the strep B test for you or refer you to one. You may also use Solv to find a lab in your area that provides high-quality strep tests and make an appointment for the same day.

• How can I book a strep test through Solv?

  In the Search box on our website, type "strep test" or "strep throat," then select your location from the dropdown option. Solv will give you a list of the best strep testing companies in your area. Find the doctor you want to visit, then click "Call now" to make an appointment for a strep test, or go to the provider's profile for more information.