Paid for corona virus most likely tests?
PickleRick
Member Posts: 4,038 ✭✭✭✭✭
My step mom tested covid positive. She had what she thought to be a cold all weekend. Monday she was tested before being able to go to work and tested positive. She's well, just has cold symptoms like runny nose and congestion.
The weird thing is they offered her 75 bucks to come take another test on Wednesday.
She didn't ask if it was for research or if they were reporting it as another positive covid test. Her symptoms had started over the weekend so a second positive test is most likely. Asking what the catch was would have been the first thing out of my mouth.
This isn't a research lab, no affiliation with the hospital or any local university. This is just your run of the mill family practice.
Has anyone else heard of this? I'm assuming there's some sort of financial perk to this for each positive test the Drs office sends in.
The weird thing is they offered her 75 bucks to come take another test on Wednesday.
She didn't ask if it was for research or if they were reporting it as another positive covid test. Her symptoms had started over the weekend so a second positive test is most likely. Asking what the catch was would have been the first thing out of my mouth.
This isn't a research lab, no affiliation with the hospital or any local university. This is just your run of the mill family practice.
Has anyone else heard of this? I'm assuming there's some sort of financial perk to this for each positive test the Drs office sends in.
Comments
In practical terms, she doesn't need a second test. For most test methods, the rate of "false positives" is near zero. In other words, if you test positive, it's almost certain that you have COVID, and you don't need a second test.
However, the "false positive" rate for that particular test kit has to be confirmed by real-world data. The data comes from people who test positive, then take a second test to confirm the first one. Companies that make tests would typically offer a small cash stipend as an incentive for patients to take a second test. That way, the company gets an additional data point to confirm the low "false positive" rate.
Personally, I'd do it. Take the cash, and help doctors better understand the test results.
Negative results are different. Most tests have a "false negative" rate of 30-50%, so it's common for a COVID-positive person to test negative. A negative result should always be followed by a second test (if you need to prove the negative result).
Is there a financial perk for the doctor's office? Yes, I'm guessing they get a stipend for administering the second test, because they're not gonna do it for free. But I bet it's not a money-maker.
Wishing your Mom a speedy recovery @PickleRick.
2018 Cherokee 39RL Land Yacht (Sorry...)
My dad is older and not in the best health so the big worry is him getting it. I have dropped some stuff off for him a few evenings this week so he could tinker with his new to him John Deere 3000 front end loader with backhoe attachment. Hes staying busy in quarantine with her. Ever time I've dropped by he sat on the porch to have a beer and talked to me while I stood in the drive way. They are in good spirits so that helps. I'm going over there tonight with the kiddo to do another a drive way visit....bringing a beer of my own tonight.
I certainly hope if she tested positive the 2nd time they dont report it as a 2nd person with covid, that's my biggest worry.
Now the other very important thing is this tractor. Do we get to see some pictures what tinkering is he doing? I have been in the market for a tractor for quite awhile but it's hard to find a decent used one both price, condition and features. I think my only option seems to be buying a new one.
Always nice to have some toys to work on and play with 😃
Boat Name: King Kong
"Boat + Water = Fun"
https://youtu.be/TLPN3VHmptA
Ive got another aunt who had had flu symptoms worse than the rest for longer and tested negative twice.
Luckily none of them have been hospitalized.
My sisters mother in law has been hospitalized due to low oxygen. I've not been told how long or gotten an update nor do I know how her health was before getting covid.
I hope all you guys stay well especially for the holidays
Boat Name: King Kong
"Boat + Water = Fun"