Posted on 01/19/21
Baltimore, MD - Jan. 1, 2021 - BALTIMORE COMMUNITY COVID-19 TESTING (RAPID, PCR & FLU TEST INFO)
**** Time and Locations for Testing ****
MORNING
Test: Rapid Only (All rapids are also swabbed for PCR).
Time: Sunday 10:30-11:30, Monday-Friday 9:30-10:30
Location: **NEW MORNING LOCATION** Beth Tfiloh Parking lot (Torah Drive entrance)
EVENING
Test: Rapid and PCR
Time: Sun.-Thurs. 7:30-8:15, Motzei Shabbos 8:30-9:15
Location: STAR-K Parking Lot (122 Slade Ave. Baltimore MD 21208)
We would like to thank Bnos Yisroel for hosting the morning testing until now and to Beth Tfiloh and specifically Rabbi Wohlberg and Dr. Zipora Schorr for providing the space and a winterized tent to help the site operate effectively during the winter months.
Contact Info: If you have a question regarding any of the covid testing options please see FAQ’s below or call 410-205-5219 or click here to email your question. Rapid-specific questions can be sent here.
**** Instructions for Testing ****
1. Please complete the lab form online here
2. A few minutes after you complete the form, you will be emailed the completed lab form. Please print the form and bring with you to the test site. In case you do not see it in your regular email inbox, please check your Spam/Junk folder.
3. To prevent cross-contamination, please bring a pen and hand sanitizer with you as well as a tissue to blow your nose prior to the test.
4. A $10/car (not per test) donation is requested to cover incurred costs of operating the testing sites. Payment can be made online here .
Please stay off your cell phones while you are at the testing sites.
**** Other Information ****
For those with children 8 and younger who need an earlier time slot or other special accommodations, please call 410.205.5219
**** FAQ’s ****
How do I view my PCR results?
You will receive an email when your results are ready. To view your results you can also visit here.
Results typically take 24-48 hours. The flu panel results may take longer. If it has been past 48 hours and you have not received your results, please contact: Shimon Lobel or Daria Laver
When will I get my RAPID results?
You will be called with your rapid results (positive or negative) within 3 hours. If you still did not receive a call after 3 hours, you may call 410.205.5219 or email here. Note that if you are positive on a rapid, a PCR test will not also be processed.
Please note: All rapids also get swabbed for PCR. There is no such thing as only getting a rapid.
How long does it take for results to be processed?
Typically, 24-48 hours. All PCR tests are only sent to the lab that night, so results from morning sessions will only be available the following afternoon at the earliest. Also, due to the early onset of Shabbos now, test results from Thursday night will not likely be available before Shabbos begins.
What is the difference between a Rapid and PCR test, and which one should I choose?
Rapid tests are faster although not as accurate as the PCR or overnight tests. The claimed accuracy of any rapid test is only when used in specific cases. Namely, the patient is experiencing clear Covid-19 symptoms for at least 24 hours. Otherwise, the accuracy rate falls dramatically. Rapid tests should not be used for travel, visitation or anything outside the above criteria. PCR tests are far more reliable and accurate. The lab we use has excellent turnaround time and if needed, can expedite results to 18 hours or less. ((All rapids are also swabbed for PCR)
I am not symptomatic, but I need fast results, what can I do?
You should certainly not use a rapid test. The results are not going to be accurate. Contact us here and we are usually able to expedite results in critical cases in under 24 hours. Some recent situations where some people were tested at 8pm had results by 1pm the next day!
Can I test out of an exposure or quarantine?
The “gold” question these days. According to CDC guidelines, if you are five days after an exposure, you can then get tested with a PCR (and only PCR) and if it is negative, you can end quarantine after day 7. Some schools or institutions have adopted stricter policies though.
Do you test business employees?
Yes. If you would like your group or business employees tested at your business location, please click here