COVID TESTING INSTRUCTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

>>> How do I schedule an appointment? Appointments can be scheduled by the patient (if over 18) or the patient's family at 972-492-0419 ext 158 or via email at Clientservices@realtimelab.com.

>>> When do I schedule an appointment? You should schedule an appointment with the lab as early as you can to finalize your travel arrangements. The office has told us that they would prefer tests to be conducted at least 48 hours before surgery in order to decrease the chances of surgical delay. Please be aware that a delay in test results could mean a delay of surgery either by moving your child or you to the later case of the day or moving to the next day completely.

>>>We were told we could get the test on *insert day* but this email says differently, when can I go? The absolute last moment you could test would 48 hours before surgery before 10 am or else you risk not having the results in time for surgery. Surgery will not be performed without test results so we strongly encourage requesting the earliest time slot possible.

>>>What do I need to bring? Do I need a requisition form? Below is a requisition form that will need to be completed for everyone receiving a test. Additionally a credit card authorization form should be completed to perform treatment. This is the easiest for the scheduling team and will be easier for you receiving the test. Instructions and forms are attached below as well.

>>>How much does it cost? Can I use my insurance? Unfortunately at this time there is no possibility of using insurance, but we have negotiated a discounted price for the test. The test costs $125 per person ($100 test + $25 set up lab fee) and must be paid before the test can be performed. The lab can provide you with a receipt so that you can seek reimbursement through your insurance.

>>>I am not traveling in until *insert day* is that okay? As long as you can make the 10 am deadline and are comfortable with the possibility of you/the patient having surgery later in the day if results are delayed.

>>>Can I get the testing done at *insert location* instead of that lab you provided? You are more than welcome to test at another lab as precaution, but there must be a test performed by our lab 48-72 hours before surgery.

>>>Does everyone in my family need to get tested? That would be ideal for everyone traveling to get tested, but we only require those coming into the surgery center to be tested.

Instructions

We are requiring patients get tested for COVID-19 prior to their surgery. Testing will be conducted at RealTime Laboratories which is located at 4100 Fairway Dr Suite 600 in Carrollton, TX 75010. When you put this location into the maps it takes you to a location 2 minutes from the correct destination so please follow these instructions instead: Once you exit 121 and turn onto Hebron Parkway, you will turn Left onto Fairway (the next light) *the maps will try to have you turn right instead of left* and follow the road around to the left. A tree is blocking the logo at first, but you will see the Realtime Labs building at the end there. (See pictures attached.)

To schedule an appointment please email ClientServices@RealTimeLab.com or call Vicky at 972-492-0419 Ext. 158 or Donna at 972-492-0419 Ext. 110. In order to schedule an appointment please provide the patient's name, date of birth, and scheduled surgery date along with any family members getting a test, their name and date of birth. A requisition form will be required for the testing, that is attached for you to complete and email to ClientServices@RealTimeLab.com. Dallas-area patients should schedule their collection the Friday prior to their surgery on Monday. For out of town patients, it is recommended that you arrive two days prior to your surgery, as late flights or missed connections may prevent you from getting your sample collected and test resulted in time for your surgery. We will need the test results before surgery can be performed.

The test will be the nasal swab, not the painful nasopharyngeal or blood sample. Upon arrival they will ask if you have a COVID requisition form along with the credit card authorization form. The credit card authorization form is attached below and should be in your possession at the time of the appointment. When you arrive at the lab please stay in your automobile, the test will be performed while you are in your car. You may lower your window(s) to talk to the data collectors during this time. The results will get sent to our office in which we will notify you of the results.

Scheduled surgery day along with the recommended appointment timeline:
Monday surgeries should schedule their testing appointment anytime Friday
Tuesday surgeries should schedule their testing appointment on Saturday from 7 am - 10 am
Wednesday surgeries should schedule their testing appointment on Monday from 7 am - 10 am
Thursday surgeries should schedule their testing appointment on Tuesday from 7 am - 10 am
Friday surgeries should schedule their testing appointment on Wednesday from 7 am - 10 am

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARRIVE
1. Immediately upon entering the business park, you’ll see our building, clearly marked, RealTime Laboratories.
2. Make a left turn into the parking lot in front of the building. There are two reserved parking spots underneath the building sign.
3. Park in either Bay 1 or Bay 2 (the reserved spots). Call the lab at 972-492-0419 ext. 158 to alert the staff of your arrival. Please stay in your car and our collection team will come to you.

COVID Paperwork to be completed and given to the lab