To protect our members from COVID-19, Kaiser Permanente continues to make testing and vaccination a priority throughout the region. We encourage all of our members to test first with an at-home (antigen) test. COVID-19 home antigen tests provide results usually within 30 minutes. These are highly accurate when you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which include taking both tests in your kits 24-36 hours apart. Rapid tests can be used in most cases, including if you or your family:
- Have symptoms (retest after 24-48 hours if the first test result is negative)
- Have been exposed to someone who tested positive (test 5 days after exposure if no symptoms)
- Plan to attend a gathering or event, or spend time with people are at risk for serious illness
- Need to show a negative test result for return to work (employer policies may vary
If a PCR test is required by your doctor or to show for an event or activity, you may schedule an appointment at one of our medical centers that offers COVID-19 testing. Since 2020, our Advanced Urgent Care teams have conducted COVID-19 testing for members. Starting in November, that responsibility will shift to our Laboratory teams.
The medical centers below will now conduct COVID-19 testing in their lab departments. For a full list of COVID-19 testing facilities, please visit kp.org/covidtesting.
- Capitol Hill Medical Center, starting October 24
- South Baltimore County Medical Center, starting November 7
- Tysons Corner Medical Center, starting November 15
- Gaithersburg Medical Center, starting November 28
- Largo Medical Center, starting date TBD
Members will still get the same convenient care experience for COVID-19 testing. Tests will be performed by experienced staff members, and members will receive their test results within 24 hours.
Even with this shift, we still offer a variety of convenient ways for our members to get tested for COVID-19, including:
- Antigen at-home kits delivered to your home,
- PCR kits delivered to your home,
- Appointments to be swab by a lab staff member,
- Appointments for COVID-19 kit pick-up, or
- Appointments to self-swab testing.
To determine the best method of testing for you and your family, read our test guide.
We require appointments for all COVID-19 testing and vaccination services. To schedule an appointment, complete an e-visit on kp.org or call 800-777-7904.
Protect yourself and your loved ones this season by getting tested for COVID-19, especially before any social gatherings. You deserve to enjoy the holidays together and in good health.
