Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQs on the Weekly PCR Testing Program

I received an insurance bill for a vaccine or test?

Even though Inspire provides its services at no out of pocket costs to the individuals or families, insurance companies often send an Explanation of Benefits (“EOB”) to their insured members. This may show an amount as a copayment, deductible or other amount due from the individual or family; however, an EOB is not an invoice nor does it indicate Inspire’s expectation to receive such amounts. The above is consistent with both the Executive Order by the Biden Administration and recent state legislature passed in California. Although insurers are to reimburse healthcare providers directly for COVID-19 related services, certain insurers may reimburse the individual or family. In these cases, an individual or family is asked to pass along that insurance payment to Inspire. If any individuals or families have any questions or require more information, please let them know that such inquiries can be directed to testing@inspirediagnostics.com or (949) 868-4100. An Inspire team member will be glad to address any concerns. See Official Letter from Inspire. 

Why are we providing optional weekly testing for students?

Screening testing is part of a comprehensive strategy that includes masking indoors, vaccination, isolation/quarantine protocols, keeping students home when they are ill and more. CDPH recommends screening with a molecular test with a weekly frequency. They assert that molecular testing as a screening tool is most effective when turnaround times are short (<2 days)." With inspire Diagnostics, turnaround times are 24 hours.

Is the Weekly PCR testing initiative being mandated for students?

No, the PCR testing effort requires consent and is voluntary. 

Can students consent to participate in the weekly PCR testing program?

In accordance with CDPH, students, who are age 13 and up, can consent to be tested. Schools will be notifying all parents of the program and request their consent. 

What does the program look like for students? 

All students who have a consent form completed will be tested during school hours, on campus. The trained Inspire healthcare worker uses a swab to collect respiratory material found in the lower nasal. A swab is a soft tip on a flexible stick that goes into the lower part of a student’s nasal passage. The entire collection process should take only a few minutes. After collection, the swab is sealed in a tube and then sent to a laboratory for analysis. 

How will I know the result of the PCR?

Parents will be notified within 24 hours of the sample being taken, via text and email. 

How often will students be tested?

All students who have a consent completed will be tested once a week. Students who are exposed to a positive case will be tested a second time that week. 

Are the CDC or FDA phasing out the PCR tests?

The CDC recently issued a Lab Alert: Changes to CDC RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 Testing to communicate a transition to new tests. The CDC is withdrawing the Emergency Use Authorization by Dec 31, 2021 to transition to the use of a new "multiplexed method" test they have developed. This new test not only searches for SARS-CoV-2 (as the PCR currently does) but also searches for the influenza virus, so that a separate test for influenza is not needed to be administered, saving time and money. One misunderstanding is that PCR tests are unable to differentiate between influenza and SARS-CoV-2; this is not accurate. 

Is the PCR test effective?

According to the FDA and to the CDC, the PCR is a NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) that continues to be the "gold standard" for identifying SARS-CoV-2. We will transition to using newer tests once they are approved by CDPH. 

Should vaccinated individuals also participate in the weekly PCR Program?

We recommend all individuals participate in the program, especially if they have been exposed to a positive case. We are seeing positive cases among vaccinated individuals, who may be contagious. 

FAQ on CDPH Guidelines

Are schools required to adhere to CDPH guidelines?

Yes. Under operative executive orders, State Public Health Officer Order of June 11, 2021, Cal/OSHA Workplace Safety and Health Regulations, and provisions of the California Health and Safety Code, schools must comply with orders and guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health and relevant local health departments to limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect public health.