My UWS Rapid COVID-19 Test Experience

I already had a positive test a couple of months back for COVID-19, and according to the experts I should still have the antibodies.  Still, we have a small family event coming up this weekend.  Even though health officials say that testing is not a method to use to hang out with people, it was requested by the family we are visiting.  Previously I opted for the saliva test at The DECC in Duluth, however I wanted my results faster than their approximately 48 hours.

The girlfriend and her daughter took the rapid test at UWS on Tuesday, and I went on Wednesday.  Results from the test are emailed to you in about half an hour and it doesn't matter what state you live in.  Also, there is no cost for this service and no need to give insurance information.

You need to register first, and you can get information on doing that HERE.  Registration is simple, though you will be adding to your list once again, another password to remember.  You will need that to login for your results once they are available.  Sign-up was quick enough, just make sure you hang on to your registration number, as they will request that upon arrival.  I forgot mine, and they were able to look me up in the system though.

You are greeted upon entry and taking to the registration table, from there you wait in line if there is one for a nurse to get you started.  They direct you to pull down your mask and use a long cotton swab to work into both nostrils.  Not too deep, just enough to almost make tears.  Then they take it, and you leave with the option to grab a free pack of masks.  I might have been in there for a total of 6 minutes and my results were emailed to me in about 25.  It's a slick process and much nicer than having to wait a couple of days, especially if you are actually having symptoms.  My results were negative, so the girlfriend's family can feel better at early Christmas.