Why RapidRona Uses The Gold-Standard of Testing (rt-PCR) for COVID-19

You might be wondering how to get tested for COVID-19 from the safety of your own home, knowing your test is as accurate as possible? Getting tested for the rapidly spreading ‘Rona’ is at the top of everyone’s to-do list right now. For people who understand the risk, to themselves or others, of leaving their homes, better solutions for testing are available.

Based in Chicago, RapidRona is a team of multi-disciplined experts passionate about creating a platform that connects the patient-consumer to smarter and safer diagnostic testing. Their new system for getting a COVID-19 rt-PCR test provides a unique process that facilitates a completely at-home test with a guaranteed 48-hour turnaround time. This article will discuss RapidRona's Self-Collection Kit, as well as their process for testing for COVID-19.

What Is The rt-PCR Testing Process?

The rt-PCR test is considered the gold standard for testing because it tests for the actual viral genetic material, where other tests test for pieces of the virus (antigens) or effects caused by the virus (antibodies). As a result, if someone tests positive on the antibody or antigen they need to do the rt-PCR test anyway.

RapidRona’s process can be broken down into four steps, the first of which is ordering your rt-PCR test kit online. You will be asked to create an account to log in, enter your necessary personal details and do an eligibility questionnaire. RapidRona will secure a doctor’s requisition for you and the test will be delivered to your doorstep via a 2-Day Express at no cost to the patient or a 1-Day premium shipping.

The second step involves collecting your sample by logging into your account and registering at ‘Collect My Sample’. A full step-by-step instructional guide will lead you through the collection of your sample. This process not only allows you to stay in the comfort and safety of your own home, but also saves on costs associated with doctor’s visits.

The third step involves requesting pickup by the courier, who then overnights your sample, at ambient temperatures, to authorized laboratories to expedite your results. The testing samples are strictly used for rt-PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA - this detects the presence or absence of genes from the SARS-CoV-2.

The fourth step involves receiving an email notification that you can view your test results, doctor’s requisition, and receipt 24/7, also available to download. From the time your test is picked up by the courier, you are guaranteed results within 48 hours or your money back. If you test positive, a physician from the healthcare network will be in contact with you to discuss the results, alternatively, any queries are welcome for discussion.

FDA EUA Approval

The RapidRona Self-Collection Kit received their Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA on 23 November, 2020. This gives full authorization to the patient to receive the test at home and perform the self-collection of nasal swab specimens using the instructions in the kit and online.

RapidRona collaborates with a network of authorized laboratories certified under the CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) of 1988, 42 U.S.C. §263a, which gives them permission to perform high complexity tests at acceptable requirements. Their use of the Self-Collection Kit has been validated and reviewed by FDA under an Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) to verify it’s accuracy. The kits are for use by prescription only, and for in vitro diagnostic use only, which is why RapidRona takes care of prescription and lab qualification for the user.

RapidRona’s mission is to make the testing process as easy and fast as possible, helping the patient-consumer stay safe and ‘tucked up at home’, attempting to eliminate all contact or exposure to the COVID-19 virus. The Self-Collection Kit consists of a 3” nostril swab, which is also less complex and invasive than the deep nasopharyngeal ‘brain-tickling’ swabs that have been used at hospitals (spreading as much fear as the virus itself).

Order Your Test Today

For more information about RapidRona and to order their Self-Collection Kit, visit their website to create an account to order a test or read more about the testing process and various resources and information provided about COVID-19.