COVID-19 Testing

UW Medicine offers drive-through and walk-up testing for COVID-19. The test used is either a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) or a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.

Please review the information at each location for the latest information. During times of high testing volumes, testing sites may require appointments and limit reasons for testing. Please check other COVID-19 testing locations for additional testing availability.

Note that UW Medicine providers can only access test results from Harborview Medical Center and UW Medical Center – Northwest.

For information about the COVID-19 testing process, including turnaround times at lab testing sites, read the four steps of COVID-19 testing.

Before the test

You must bring a form of identification with you to your appointment -- such as a driver's license or passport -- to confirm your identity. All patients should wear a mask and arrive five minutes before their scheduled test time.

When you arrive

You will be directed to line up and verify your name and date of birth. If walk-up, please maintain 6 feet of distance from other individuals. If driving, remain in your car with your windows closed until a healthcare professional signals you to lower your car window.

During the test

Some locations are directed and assisted swab sites, where individuals conduct their own swab, while being supervised by a healthcare provider. Watch this video to see the directed and assisted swab testing process from start to finish.

The UW Medical Center - Northwest and Harborview sites will have a healthcare provider conduct the swab. A healthcare provider will put a cotton swab up both nostrils, one after the other, for 10-15 seconds each. The process can be uncomfortable but is rarely painful. Some patients experience a slight nosebleed, which can be controlled using tissue and pressure.

After the test

You will be given a QR (quick response) code. This code allows you to use a computer or mobile device to go online and access your test results. Please wait 72 hours before calling the laboratory if you haven’t received your results.

Visit the UW Virology COVID-19 Dashboard to see daily testing volumes and average result times. Test results may take longer than average. 

While you're waiting for test results, if you have been exposed to someone with COVID or are experiencing COVID-like symptoms, you should self-quarantine at home. For more information on what to do while you wait, read our follow-up instructions.

If your COVID-19 test result is positive or inconclusive, a healthcare provider will call you to let you know.

For test results within King County, if patients are having trouble accessing their results, they can call 206.477.3977 between 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Interpretation is available.

How billing for your COVID-19 test works

Insured patients

Your insurance and billing information is gathered at the time that you make your COVID-19 testing appointment.

Most health insurance plans will cover testing, however if tested at UW Medical Center – Northwest or Harborview these plans may apply portions of the COVID-19 test cost ($155-$230) to your deductible or coinsurance:

• Employer plans that are self-funded
• Out-of-state Medicaid
• Medicare

• Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• United Health Care
• Federal employee health plans
• Health plans for members of the military or veterans
• Uniform Medical Plan for state and school employees

More information about health insurance and COVID-19 is available on the Insurance Commissioner's website. Please contact your insurance company for questions specific to your particular plan.

Uninsured patients

For uninsured patients going to UW Medical Center – Northwest or Harborview, UW Medicine representatives will be available to assist you with screening for financial assistance options. Please call the UW Medicine Financial Access Clearance Team at 206.598.4388 for more information or if you have any other questions.

All other sites provide free COVID-19 testing regardless of immigration or insurance status. They are open for drive-thru or walk/wheel-ups to anyone who cannot access a COVID-19 test through their regular healthcare provider.

If your clinic told you that you need a COVID-19 test prior to surgery, it should be scheduled with your patient care coordinator. If you need to schedule, call the Contact Center at 206.520.8700 or call your clinic.

Pre-surgery testing must take place at UW Medical Center – Northwest or Harborview Medical Center.