Urgent Care for Strep Test in Fairfax, VA

A strep test is a diagnostic tool used to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria. There are two types of strep tests available: rapid tests and throat cultures. The most common type is a rapid strep test, which can provide results within minutes. If the test is positive, it confirms the presence of strep bacteria, and the patient will be prescribed antibiotics.

If the rapid strep test is negative but the healthcare provider still suspects strep throat, a throat culture may be performed. This involves the same swabbing procedure as the rapid test, but the sample is cultured in a lab to see if Group A strep bacteria grow. This process typically takes 1 to 2 days but is more accurate at detecting strep infections that the rapid test could miss.

Visiting an urgent care center for a strep test offers several advantages, such as:

• Quick diagnosis: Urgent care centers are equipped to perform rapid strep tests, which can provide results within minutes.

• Convenient hours: Urgent care centers typically operate on extended hours, including evenings and weekends, which makes it easier to get tested and treated without the need for an appointment.

• Comprehensive care: In addition to diagnosing strep throat, urgent care providers can prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to alleviate symptoms such as fever and throat pain.

Prompt treatment of strep throat can prevent serious complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. By visiting urgent care when you suspect you have strep throat, you can start treatment quickly and feel better faster.

A strep test is performed by swabbing the back of the throat and tonsils with a long cotton swab to collect a sample of secretions. After the swab is complete, the sample is tested for the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria. The rapid strep test is favored for its swift results, typically available within minutes.

Compared to the rapid strep test, the throat culture test is more precise. It involves the same collection process as the rapid test, but the sample is monitored in the lab over a few days to determine whether bacteria are present. With both types of strep tests, the process is simple and painless.

Rapid strep tests at urgent care centers are highly accurate, with a sensitivity of approximately 90 to 95%, meaning they correctly identify positive cases a large majority of the time. While rapid strep tests provide quick results, they are not infallible. Although it’s rare, false negatives can occur, which is why a follow-up throat culture may be recommended if the rapid test result is negative but clinical symptoms strongly suggest strep throat.

So, while rapid strep tests offer a quick and reliable first step in diagnosing strep throat, follow-up testing ensures thorough care when needed. This two-step approach ensures accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, reducing the risk of complications such as rheumatic fever.

In Virginia, the cost of a strep test at urgent care centers ranges from $50 to $150. The exact price will vary based on several factors, such as the specific urgent care center and whether additional services or an office visit fee are included.

If you have insurance coverage, the cost of your strep test may be lower. On the other hand, for patients without insurance, the total cost can be higher, which includes the doctor’s visit fee.

At Prima Urgent Care, we offer competitive pricing for our strep testing services, ensuring that you can receive affordable, high-quality care when you need it. Our rapid strep tests provide quick and accurate results, allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment. If you or a loved one have strep throat symptoms, our healthcare providers can pinpoint the underlying cause and provide comprehensive care to alleviate discomfort. We serve patients from Fairfax VA, South Riding VA, Dulles VA, Chantilly VA, Stone Ridge VA, Oakton VA, Burke VA, Oak Hill VA, Lees Corner VA and beyond!