PCR Frequently Asked Questions
Is regular PCR testing required at Menlo?
For the start of the 2022-2023 school year, we are asking all students, faculty, and staff to obtain a negative test before coming to campus for the first time (orientation activities or the first day of school). Either a PCR or an antigen test is sufficient though those who have had Covid in the last 90 days should use the antigen test. After that, testing is optional unless you are symptomatic, in which case you should be tested. Inspire Diagnostics will continue to offer on-campus testing this fall. See eNotes and ZipNotes for dates.
Do I need to upload my test result?
For the start of the 2022-2023 school year, there is no requirement to upload your test results; however, anyone who tests positive should reach out to the School Nurses for the next steps.
What is the accuracy of Inspire Diagnostics’ PCR test?
According to Inspire, PCR testing for COVID-19 is the gold standard in terms of accuracy. The test that Inspire employs—an RT-PCR—attributes high sensitivity and specificity. Clinical studies showed 100% on both sensitivity and specificity. You can learn more about Inspire’s accuracy rates and how to understand them here.
How do I register with Inspire Diagnostics?
Pre-registering with Inspire is fast, easy, and only needs to be done once. Menlo students and employees can pre-register here and will need their insurance information. Once pre-registered, students will get an electronic QR code (or a physical QR code card if they would prefer) to show each time they come in for testing.
My child had COVID-19 within the last 90 days should they take a PCR test?
No. If your child has had COVID-19 in the last three months, they should use a rapid antigen test. Contact the School Nurses at nurse@menloschool.org for questions.
If my student tests positive can they still come to school?
The County and CDC have specific guidelines that we must follow so please contact the School Nurses at nurse@menloschool.org if your student tests positive.
Is on-campus testing really free? Why did I receive a statement from my insurance company?
Inspire Diagnostics directly bills the insurance provider of the person being tested and Inspire’s compensation is solely what the insurance company pays. A person who was tested may receive an Explanation of Benefits from their insurance company explaining what the insurance company was billed, what they paid, and what the person tested may be asked to pay. That is standard protocol. Inspire will not bill the person tested for the amount the insurance did not pay. You can simply file the Explanation of Benefits away.
The only exception to this is that, in some cases, the insurance company will pay directly to the person tested some portion of the amount Inspire billed them, instead of paying Inspire. (We have had reports of this happening for Blue Cross Blue Shield members.) If that happens, you may receive a letter from Inspire asking you to pay Inspire the amount the insurance company paid you. If this happens, follow the instructions in the letter to reimburse Inspire.
Inspire has two ways of receiving these payments from you:
- Online payment here
or
-
Write a check to Inspire Diagnostics and send it to:
Inspire Diagnostics
26497 Rancho Pkwy S
Lake Forest, CA 92630
You can contact the Inspire billing department at (424) 220-3952 or ask.inspirediagnostics@synhs.com.
I have some more questions that aren’t answered here; what’s the easiest way to find answers?
Further questions can be directed to nurse@menloschool.org and Joan Barada or Laurel Marks will be happy to help in any way they can.