WellNow Urgent Care. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

WellNow Urgent Care said it has begun COVID-19 and antibody testing at its Jamestown and Lakewood locations.

The molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and blood antibody serology tests are available seven days a week with no appointments needed.

“Bringing both types of COVID-19 testing to our communities in Jamestown is a top priority right now,” said Dr. John Radford, WellNow Urgent Carepresident. “As New York prepares to reopen, providing all our communities with answers to their COVID-19 questions is as much our responsibility as is making sure all our centers remain a safe and welcoming place for all urgent care needs.”

The same tests have been available at other WellNow locations, including in Dunkirk.

The molecular test, like a flu test, requires a nasopharyngeal swab to determine if a patient has COVID-19. Antibody testing uses a blood sample to determine the presence of antibodies in response to a recent or past COVID-19 infection. Additionally, antibody testing can suggest if an individual may have some protection from the virus and help identify potential plasma donors.

All patients will be screened in their car, provided a mask, and brought directly to a private patient room for further evaluation and testing. Both tests are highly accurate, and the two accepted forms of COVID-19 screening used by health providers, and validated by the FDA. Labs are sent overnight, with results returned three to five days later through an online portal located at mybostonheart.com.

“These COVID-19 tests offer Jamestown communities reliable screening that provides patients clarity on their symptoms and helps guide the best course of action for their care,” said Dr. Tanvir M. Dara, WellNow Urgent Care chief medical officer. “Furthermore, using the collective data from these tests may offer a deeper understanding on how widespread the virus is within our communities, helping to inform greater decisions about the health and safety of all.”

All WellNow locations continue to provide treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses.