Covid-19 Testing

Equity Health

Book a Covid-19 Test Online in Calgary, AB

At laboratory

In Lab

PCR Testing

What is a COVID-19 PCR test?

PCR test is the “gold standard” test for screening COVID-19 because it’s the most accurate and reliable test.

We use the technology of the Allplex™ 2019-nCoV Assay, which  is a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test.

In Lab

Rapid Antigen

What is a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test?

We offer a fast, proven and trusted COVID-19 antigen test that is readily available to you.  You can perform the test by yourself with a simple nasal swab.

We offer Abbott’s rapid tests which are among the most widely-used in a lot of countries, with more than 200 million rapid tests used in urgent care clinics, doctor’s offices, pharmacies, nursing homes, and schools since April 2020.

In Lab or At Home

Mobile Testing

What is a COVID-19 Mobile Test?

Our mobile collection service offers a convenient and affordable way for you to COVID-19 PCR testing in the comfort of your own home, workplace, or other desired location. No need to wait, to miss work or school because we are here just for you.

Equity Health offers a variety of Covid-19 testing options in Calgary fit to your specific needs.

 

How does a COVID-19 PCR test work?

There are three key steps to the COVID-19 PCR test: 1) sample collection, 2) extraction, and 3) PCR.

1. Sample collection is done using a swab to collect respiratory material found in your throat. A swab contains a soft tip on a long, flexible stick that is inserted into your throat or nose. After collection, the swab is sealed in a tube and then sent for extraction.

2. When a laboratory technologist receives the sample, they perform a process called extraction, which isolates genetic material from the sample including genetic material from any virus that may be present.

3. The PCR step then uses special chemicals and a PCR machine.