COVID-19 TESTING

1/17/22:  We are pleased to offer 2 options for  COVID-19 testing!  Each are suitable for most travel destinations.  

1.  PCR nasopharyngeal swab testing with results in 24-96 hours (depending on lab test time- greater during surges), tests run at Pacific Diagnostic Laboratories.

2.  Abbott ID NOW molecular testing on nasopharyngeal samples (NAAT- nucleic acid amplification technology) with results in 15-60 minutes, test run on-site at Riviera ENT.

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PLEASE BE AWARE THAT WE ARE STRICTLY A TESTING FACILITY.  IF YOU HAVE A POSITIVE TEST, MEDICAL CARE SHOULD BE PROVIDED BY YOUR PRIMARY DOCTOR, URGENT CARE, OR FOR EMERGENCIES AT THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.  WE DO NOT OFFER TREATMENT FOR COVID 19 AT RIVIERA ENT.

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Testing FAQ:

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What kind of COVID-19 testing is offered?

• We perform nasopharyngeal swabs, which are sent for PCR testing to identify active COVID-19 infection. This is the most reliable test available, which involves passing a swab into the back of the nose.

• The test is performed by our skilled and compassionate nurse.

• Swabs take place outside of our office in the back parking lot. The lot is accessible from the alleyway on Islay St, between State St and Chapala St. Turn in at the sign that says 16W Islay Apartments.

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Who can get a test?

• We test all ages, including children. Young children should be kept in their car seats for the test.

• Testing is available for symptomatic patients, recent exposures to COVID, for work or travel or event requirements.

• We now offer after-hours or on-site group testing for additional fees; please contact the office to discuss further if interested.

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​When can I get a test?

• We offer appointments Monday through Friday. 

• Please complete our secure online intake form and call our office to schedule.

• If it is your FIRST SWAB with us, click HERE to complete the form. For RETURNING SWABS, call for an appointment.

• Because of the overwhelming demand for COVID-19 testing, we will not be able to call every patient completing forms. Please call us to schedule an appointment.  

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Does the test cost any money?

• There is a $75 non-refundable convenience fee per PCR test and $150 non-refundable convenience fee per rapid NAAT test, payable to Riviera ENT by credit card or cash.

• Payment must be collected before the test is performed.  

• Currently, most insurances are covering the laboratory costs of PCR testing. For those without insurance, the laboratory costs are typically covered by the county, but a driver's license is required by the lab to process this. This office is offering testing as a service and will not submit tests to your insurance though you will have a receipt if you need one to submit to your own insurance company. 

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Where do I go for my swab?

• Please arrive on time for your appointment to prevent delays for other patients

• If you have not yet paid for your swab, please come to the door and call us at 805-327-6673 to pay with our front office before your appointment time

• We ask that patients park in our back lot. See our main page for directions and instructions

• Please call the office when you arrive to indicate you are here. We will provide further instructions at that time

• Swabs are performed in a sheltered area outside our office. The area is sanitized between each patient

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Where are the swabs sent for testing and when can I expect my results?

• PCR COVID-19 tests will be sent daily to Pacific Diagnostic Labs for analysis.  Results presently are currently taking 24-96 hours to return, but this timeframe is subject to change depending on the testing capacity and the numbers of samples the lab receives. The lab requires that we include your insurance information with your sample.

• NAAT Abbott ID-NOW Rapid Molecular tests are run at Riviera ENT by trained personnel.  We estimate results in 15-60 minutes depending on how many tests are being performed at that time. 

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How do I find out my results?

For PCR testing:  

• Due to high volume and demand, the fastest and easiest way to see your results is to check your Epic My Chart (same as Cottage Hospital)

• Patients will be contacted by a staff member when results are available; please be sure your voicemail box is not full in case you are not able to answer.  We will email you the results as well; please be sure we have your email to do so.  If you need a hard copy it can be picked up at the office in person during routine business hours. 

• Positive results will be contacted by phone and reported to the County Public Health Dept in accordance with state law.

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For NAAT Abbott ID-NOW Rapid Molecular Testing:

• We will run the test shortly after the sample is obtained.  Only one test can be run at a time and it takes 15-20 minutes. We estimate results in 15-60 minutes depending on how many tests are being performed. 

• Patients will be contacted by a staff member when results are available; please be sure your voicemail is not full in case you are not able to answer.  We will email you the results as well; please be sure we have your email to do so.  If you need a hard copy it can be picked up at the office in person during routine business hours. 

• Positive results will be contacted by phone and reported to the County Public Health Dept in accordance with state law.

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