Peloton Member ExamOne Announces COVID-19 Antibody Test Available Soon For Life Insurers
COVID-19 Service Provider Update
Quest Diagnostics now offers COVID-19 antibody testing
Last week Quest announced they have started testing for the COVID-19 antibody using blood samples.
Antibodies developed by the body in response to a viral infection may provide potential immunity against future infection. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, COVID-19 antibody testing may indicate that “the person has been exposed to the virus and developed antibodies against it, which may mean that person has at least some immunity to the coronavirus.” Antibody testing uses blood serum specimens and is sometimes referred to as serology testing. This test aids in detecting the presence of immunoglobulin class G (IgG). IgG antibody response typically develops by 14 days after symptom onset.
Antibody testing available for direct-to-consumers
Individuals can now request COVID-19 antibody testing for themselves online, without visiting a doctor’s office, through QuestDirect, the consumer-initiated testing business of Quest Diagnostics. The new service broadens access to COVID-19 antibody testing in the United States. Each test request is reviewed and, if appropriate, an order for testing is issued by a licensed physician. Individuals have the opportunity to speak with a licensed physician about their results. >>Read press release
Antibody testing available soon for life insurers
Since this is a blood test, insurance companies will be able to add it to their routine panel. Life insurance applicants will still have the option to have the paramedical exam completed at their home, or at a Quest Patient Service Center (PSC). This antibody test should be available to insurers later in May. >>Request more information
Please note: Antibody testing is not intended for use in individuals with an active COVID-19 infection, including individuals with symptoms. Patients suspected of having or confirmed to have active COVID-19 infection or disease may not visit Quest patient service centers, which are not equipped to collect the necessary respiratory specimens for molecular COVID-19 diagnostic testing. Patients who believe they may have COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.
If you would like more information on adding the COVID-19 antibody test to your laboratory profile, please reach out to your Strategic Account Executive.
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