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COVID-19 Testing Services

Get a COVID-19 test at a location near you.

Testing is an important part of national efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. MaineHealth and the state of Maine provide several options for getting a COVID-19 test.

  Do I need to have symptoms? What is the test cost? Do I have to be a MaineHealth patient?
MaineHealth Patient Testing
 Yes. OR asymptomatic with known exposure or elevated risk of exposure Coverage varies by insurance provider. Yes
NorDx Community Testing No. Asymptomatic testing only. $110 No
Swab and Send Program Testing No. Anyone who wants a COVID-19 test, with or without symptoms or exposure, can get one at the Swab and Send sites. Free No

Learn more about each testing option below.

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.

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. If you DO have any COVID symptoms, you must contact your health care provider for testing. 

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.

The state of Maine Swab and Send testing program is a good option for people who are not current MaineHealth patients, but who believe they may have COVID-19 or could have been exposed to the virus. You do not need to be a Maine resident to receive a Swab and Send test. 

Who is this service for?

Anyone who wants a COVID-19 test, with or without symptoms or exposure, can get one free through the Maine Swab and Send testing program.

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 Maine State Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL).

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

It will take 3-5 business days to receive your test result. 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?

Tests performed through the state of Maine Swab and Send program are free to consumers.

How do I access this test?

For more information, please visit https://www.maine.gov/covid19/restartingmaine/keepmainehealthy/testing

Should I get tested?

Speak with your primary care provider about whether COVID-19 testing is right for you or your loved ones. You can also find more information on the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web site.
Get the facts.

When can I get vaccinated?

FDA approval of COVID-19 vaccines brings hope that we are turning the tide in our fight against this deadly disease. Most people will have an opportunity to receive a vaccine by late spring or early summer. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccination at MaineHealth.
Learn More

Local Testing Services