ContinuEM staff performing a rapid COVID test in Lakewood

COVID-19 TESTING

Rapid COVID-19 Testing at Our Lakewood Urgent Care

Our ER-trained doctors can evaluate your symptoms and help you choose an appropriate COVID-19 test. Walk into ContinuEM Urgent Care in Lakewood for testing, with rapid PCR results expected in about 30 minutes. We also offer lab PCR and antibody testing. Call ahead if you need a specific test or have a deadline.

Can I Get a COVID-19 Test at Urgent Care?

Yes. ContinuEM offers COVID-19 testing at our Lakewood urgent care. You can walk in without an appointment. The team can discuss your symptoms, reason for testing, and available options. Call to confirm availability and the expected result time for the test you need.

COVID-19 Tests We Offer

Test What it checks Expected result time*
Rapid PCR Viral genetic material to help identify a current infection About 30 minutes
Lab PCR (nasal swab) Viral genetic material; an option when lab PCR documentation is needed 12–48 hours

*These are expected result times and can vary with testing and laboratory processing. Your full visit may take longer. Confirm current timing before testing if you have a deadline.

Antibody results can reflect a response to an earlier infection or vaccination, depending on the test. They do not establish that you are protected from getting COVID-19.

Is Rapid PCR the Same as a Rapid Antigen Test?

No. PCR is a molecular test that looks for viral genetic material. Antigen tests look for viral proteins. “Rapid” describes the turnaround, not a single type of test. The rapid test listed here is rapid PCR.

Why Test at ContinuEM?

ER-trained doctors. Every doctor is trained in emergency medicine and board-certified in emergency medicine.

Testing and medical evaluation. Discuss symptoms, test selection, and next steps during your visit.

Documented results. Ask about the information provided with your results and any requirements you need to meet.

Open seven days in Lakewood. Call to check availability for a specific test.

Can I Get COVID-19 Test Results the Same Day?

Rapid PCR results are expected in about 30 minutes. Lab PCR generally takes 12–48 hours, and antibody results generally take 1–2 days. Processing can affect those estimates. If you need a result for travel, work or an event, confirm the required test and expected timing before your sample is collected.

PCR and Rapid PCR Testing for Travel

If your destination or carrier requires a COVID-19 test, confirm its current rules before arranging testing. ContinuEM offers PCR and rapid PCR testing with documented results. Whether a result meets a travel requirement depends on the required test, collection timing and documentation.

What Should I Check Before Testing?

• The exact test type accepted by your destination and carrier.
• When the sample must be collected relative to departure or arrival, including the relevant time zone.
• What information the result document must contain.
• Whether the expected reporting time fits your itinerary.

Bring the requirements and your travel details. Ask our team to confirm the test and documentation before you collect it.

Can I Get a Rapid PCR Test for Travel?

Rapid PCR may be an option when it meets your destination's requirements. Call (562) 731-3990 to discuss availability, the expected result time, and the documentation needed. Acceptance and delivery before a travel deadline cannot be guaranteed.

What to Expect at Your COVID-19 Testing Visit

  1. Check In and Discuss Your Testing Needs

    Tell the team about symptoms, a recent exposure, any recent positive test and the reason you are testing. If you have symptoms, please wear a mask when you arrive.

  2. Provide a Sample

    PCR testing uses a swab sample. Antibody testing uses a blood sample. The team explains the collection process for your test.

  3. Receive Results and Discuss Next Steps

    Before leaving, ask how they'll deliver your results and when to expect them. A doctor can discuss what the result means and whether you need further evaluation.

When to Consider COVID-19 Testing

Talk with the team if you have symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat, have had a recent exposure, or need a documented test for a specific requirement. The right test and timing depend on your situation, including whether you have recently had COVID-19.

If you are having chest pressure with trouble breathing, signs of a stroke, a major injury, or heavy bleeding, call 911.

What Happens if I Test Positive?

Our doctors can assess your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors, then discuss treatment when appropriate. Some treatments need to start early in the illness. If you may be at higher risk of severe illness, contact a clinician promptly to discuss testing and treatment. The team can also explain precautions to help reduce spread.

Call 911 for trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, difficulty staying awake, or lips or skin that appear unusually pale, gray, or blue.

ContinuEM doctor explaining COVID test results to a patient

FAQ

COVID-19 Testing FAQs

A negative test does not always rule out infection. If you still have symptoms or concerns, ask a clinician whether repeat testing or another evaluation is appropriate. Follow the instructions for the type of test used.

Yes. Some molecular tests can stay positive after the initial infection. Tell the team when you last tested positive so they can help choose an appropriate testing approach.

For current pricing and coverage information, see Insurance & Pricing or call (562) 731-3990.

Related Care at ContinuEM

Similar symptoms can have different causes. Our doctors can evaluate your concerns and discuss appropriate care.

ContinuEM care team in Lakewood

COVERAGE

We’ve Got You Covered

Your cost depends on your plan and the services you need. Call (562) 731-3990 to check benefits or ask about self-pay pricing.

*Exclusions apply for insurance plans without urgent care benefits — see cash payment options.

  • Aetna
  • Alignment Healthcare
  • Anthem
  • Blue Shield of California
  • CareMore Health
  • Cigna
  • Health Net
  • ILWU Local 13
  • Long Beach USD
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Medicare Part B
  • Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Optum
  • Premier Health
  • Prospect Health
  • SCAN Health Plan
  • United Healthcare

*Anthem patients’ benefits may differ   † Kaiser commercial plans only

‡ except Humana   § except Medi-Cal

FIND US

Visit ContinuEM in Lakewood

Lakewood is home. We’re on South Street, minutes from Long Beach, Cerritos, Bellflower, and the surrounding communities, with easy parking and walk-in care until 11 PM on weekdays.

FAX

(562) 461-0082

HOURS & APPOINTMENTS

Monday – Friday
8 AM – 11 PM (last check-in at 10:30 PM)

Saturday & Sunday
10 AM – 6 PM (last check-in at 5:30 PM)

Times may vary. See Holiday Hours.

Giancarlo DiMassa, MD

Medically reviewed by

Giancarlo DiMassa, MD

Written by

ContinuEM Editorial Team

Last updated

October 30, 2026

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

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