Spectrum Health offers two types of COVID-19 testing. The first is the COVID-19 (molecular) test where a sample is taken via nasal or nasopharyngeal swab to determine if the person is currently infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. The second type of test is the COVID-19 (serology) antibody test where a blood sample is taken to determine if the person had previously been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.

COVID-19 Testing (To see if you currently have COVID-19)

How do I get tested for COVID-19?

First, you must be screened to determine if you qualify for a COVID-19 test. All tests require a valid physician order. There are three ways to get screened:

Spectrum Health patients can use the virtual screening and test self-scheduling via MyChart, Contact your primary health provider for a screening or to order a test, or Be screened over the phone by calling the Spectrum Health COVID-19 hotline at 833.559.0659. The hotline should be used by those who have never received services at Spectrum Health, require an interpreter or special assistance, or are a pre-procedure or surgery patient.

If you qualify for a test, an appointment will be made for you at one of Spectrum Health’s convenient testing locations.

Spectrum Health emergency departments are not able to provide outpatient COVID-19 testing for those who are without symptoms and want to be screened and tested without seeing a physician. Spectrum Health laboratories require a doctor’s order before performing COVID-19 tests.

Antibody Testing (To see if you previously had COVID-19)

What is the COVID-19 antibody test?

The antibody, or serology, test is a blood test designed to detect a previous COVID-19 infection through the presence of antibodies. Learn more about this test here.

Why test for antibodies?

Anyone who receives a positive result on this test has been exposed to COVID-19. The antibody testing will help meet a community need and determine how widely the disease has spread through West Michigan. We hope this testing will help us learn more about how the disease spreads in our community and who it has affected.

How can I get tested?

The two-tiered test, available at all Spectrum Health laboratories, is not restricted to a specific patient population but does require an order from a doctor or advanced practice provider. It is not intended for the diagnosis of an acute COVID-19 infection and should only be used 10 or more days after the onset of symptoms.

Anyone who would like a test should contact their health care provider. Spectrum Health has the capacity to conduct up to 1,000 antibody tests per day with results typically available within 24 hours. The cost of the test is $45 and should be covered by most insurance plans.

If I test positive for antibodies, does that mean I won’t get COVID-19?

The presence of antibodies does not mean you are immune from contracting COVID-19, nor does it support easing behaviors such as social distancing, wearing a face mask and regularly washing your hands.