A variety of over-the-counter COVID-19 self-tests are available at most local pharmacies. If you develop mild symptoms or are exposed to someone with COVID-19, consider doing a self-test.

If you test positive at home, stay home and call your doctor. There is no need to go to the emergency room or walk-in clinic, unless you develop severe symptoms such as:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face

Learn more about self-testing at home.

Learn more about how to treat mild COVID illness at home.

Who is this service for?

This service is for people who DO NOT have COVID-19 symptoms and DO NOT meet the criteria for a test through their health care provider or the DHHS standing order. For example, people who need a test before they can go to school, work or travel but:

• Have had no known exposure to the coronavirus and
• Have no active COVID-19 symptoms 

You do not need to be a current MaineHealth patient or a Maine resident.

What type of test?

This is a self-administered mid-turbinate nasal swab test. 

Where is my sample sent?

Your sample will be sent to the NorDx laboratory.

How long will it take and how will I get my results?

Test results are sent via secure email and are generally available within 48 to 72 hours. A positive result (detected) means that you currently have COVID-19 and can spread the disease to others. A negative result (not detected) means that you most likely do not have an active COVID-19 infection. A negative test result (not detected) does not mean that you are immune from the virus. 

What is the cost?

The patient cost for a NorDx COVID-19 test is $110.

How do I access this test?

Appointments are required. Complete this form, then call NorDx at 207-396-7830 to make an appointment. Phone lines are available Monday-Friday 7:30 am – 4 pm.

Maine Swab-and-Send and local pharmacy testing locations are a good option for anyone who believes they may have COVID-19 or could have been exposed to the virus. You do not need to be a Maine resident.

How do I access this service?

Visit https://www.maine.gov/covid19/testing to see a list of COVID testing locations in Maine.

Who is this service for?

Anyone who wants a COVID-19 test, with or without symptoms or exposure.

What type of tests are available and how long will it take to get my results?

Test types vary by location. Learn more. It will take 1-5 business days to receive your test result. Result notification processes vary by location.

What is the cost?

State of Maine funded and supported sites, such as Swab and Send sites or Walgreens stores conducting antigen tests will not charge the patient or bill insurance for a test, though some sites may still collect insurance information if available.

Commercial pharmacy locations conducting PCR testing, such as Walgreens and CVS will bill insurance for those that are insured or submit for reimbursement to Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), a federal program, for those that are uninsured. Individuals, regardless of coverage, should not be billed directly for PCR testing.

Independent providers, urgent cares, walk-in clinics, and hospitals may charge or bill insurance for COVID-19 testing. Those without insurance may be responsible for any charge not covered by insurance. Ask about cost when making an appointment or upon arrival for testing.

Who is this service for?

This service is for any MaineHealth patient who: 

• Has COVID-19 symptoms; or
• Does not have COVID-19 symptoms but may be at elevated risk for exposure; or
• Requires testing prior to a procedure/surgery/hospital admission at a MaineHealth facility 

What type of test?

This is a mid-turbinate nasal swab test. A clinician will insert the swab into your nose to collect a sample from your nasal cavity.

Where is my sample sent?

Your sample will be sent to the NorDx laboratory.

How long will it take and how will I get my results?

Test results will be shared via MyChart, the MaineHealth patient portal and are generally available within 24-48 hours. For adolescent patients (age 12-17), test results are not available via MyChart and should be obtained through their provider’s office. A positive result (detected) means that you currently have COVID-19 and can spread the disease to others. A negative result (not detected) means that you most likely do not have an active COVID-19 infection. A negative test result (not detected) does not mean that you are immune from the virus. 

What is the cost?

Coverage varies by insurance provider. Check with your insurance carrier to confirm covered benefits under your plan. 

How do I access this test?

A MaineHealth provider order is required for MaineHealth testing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your MaineHealth provider who will refer you for testing, if indicated. People with COVID-19 symptoms who seek care at any MaineHealth Urgent Care location, Walk-in/Drive-through care location or hospital Emergency Department will be evaluated and referred for testing, if indicated.