Covid 19 ag test - What’s the difference between a PCR and antigen COVID

They may seem similar to serology tests, but they are different in 3 important ways: 1 they only detect active infection by the virus; 2 they do not detect antibodies, but rather viral proteins antigens that the virus is producing within the human host; and 3 they are typically not blood or serum based.

First, they are so easy to use that people with no special training can perform them and interpret the results —.

That doesn't necessarily mean you're out of luck however -- tests ordered on referral of your healthcare provider, and tests ordered by your healthcare provider, may still be covered.