COVID-19 SELF-COLLECTION
MID-TURBINATE
In this video, experts from Michigan Medicine's MLabs team demonstrate how to appropriately self-collect a COVID-19 specimen using the mid-turbinate method.
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
COVID-19 RELATED
Results
- When will I get my results?
- Within 24-48 hours. If you are traveling, we recommend scheduling your appointment 72 hours prior to your flight or travel time.
- How do I get my results?
- Your results will be uploaded into the Patient Portal. After our Billing Department contacts you to register, you will receive an email with a link to sign up for the patient portal. Complete this step right away so your portal is active. If you already have a Michigan Medicine Patient Portal, your results will automatically upload into the Portal. If you need assistance with your Portal, or viewing results for minors please contact the Patient Portal Help Desk 734.615.0872 for assistance.
- I had my test performed but I still have not received my results, are you able to send them to me?
- If you've activated your portal, and for some reason, you still can't see your results, please fill out the release of information form. Once it's filled out, it can be emailed to MichiganMedicineLaboratories@med.umich.edu. Once you've emailed it, you can call us, and ask us to send you the report.
Specimen Collection
- How is the specimen collected?
- The collection performed is a Nasopharyngeal collection or a Mid-Turbinate self-collection.
- What is a nasopharyngeal collection?
- A flexible sterile swab is placed into the back of the patient’s sinuses and throat through their nasal pathway and rotated several times to collect cells and mucus. The collection swab is then placed into a vial containing transport media and taken to the laboratory for testing. If you are a pre-procedural patient a Nasopharyngeal collection must be performed.
- What is a Mid-Turbinate self-collection?
- A Mid-Turbinate collection is an observed swab collection that the patient performs on themselves. This type of collection is less invasive compared to the Nasopharyngeal collection. For more information, watch the Mid-Turbinate Self-Collection Video.
General
- Is the test you offer a RT-PCR test?
- Yes
- I have been exposed to COVID-19, when should I get tested?
- Signs and symptoms may appear any time from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Based on preliminary data, the median incubation period is approximately 5 days but may range 2-14 days. It is recommended to have the test performed within 5-7 days after exposure.
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DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE
This brochure covers details for patients and individuals wanting to learn about the process of getting tested for COVID-19.
