11 Dec What To Know About The 30-Minute Accula Rapid PCR Test

If you think you have Covid-19, you will want to know for certain so that you can take steps to protect yourself and others. The RT-PCR Covid-19 test is the gold standard, but it can take 3 or more days to get results. Further, the increased demand in tests that has come with the winter surge of the virus has led to backlogs at laboratories and delays in results. Fortunately, the Accula Rapid PCR test gives you accurate results within 30 minutes of your appointment.

What is the Accula Rapid PCR test?

The Accula Rapid PCR test was developed by Mesa Biotech in 2020 and is effectively a portable version of the standard RT-PCR.

The test is administered as a nasal swab just like standard RT-PCR analogues. However, the Accula test can be processed onsite using a handheld device and does not need to be sent to a laboratory. Results are available within 30 minutes.

What’s the difference between the rapid PCR and the RT-PCR tests?

Similarities

• The rapid PCR and standard RT-PCR tests are both molecular tests that are designed to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA.
  A nasal swab sample needs to be collected for both types of tests
• The RT-PCR test is the gold standard in Covid-19 testing, so both options will give you the most accurate results possible

Differences

• The Standard RT-PCR test must be sent to a lab for processing, and results typically return within 3 business days
• The Accula rapid PCR test can be processed onsite using a handheld device and provides results within 30 minutes.

Is this test FDA approved?

No, this test is not yet FDA approved. However, it is authorized for use under the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

How does the Accula Rapid PCR test compare to a rapid antigen test?

Although the Accula Rapid PCR test and the rapid antigen test are fast tests for Covid-19, the two tests function in different ways.

• Instead of detecting RNA, the rapid antigen test is designed to detect proteins located on the surface of the virus.
• The Accula Rapid PCR test is only a nasal swab at this time.
• The rapid antigen test can either be a nasal swab or saliva sample.

It’s important to note that although the rapid antigen test returns results in 15 minutes and is very accurate, it is considered less accurate than the RT-PCR test. Depending on your circumstances, it may be recommended for you to get a standard or rapid PCR test to verify the results given by a rapid antigen test.

How can you get an Accula Rapid PCR test?

You can get an Accula Rapid PCR test at select clinics, doctors offices, and drive-in centers. You’ll want to check before you go to make sure that the center offers this test.

You can also get Covid-19 testing in the comfort of your home with Concierge MD.