Please fill out the contact form and we can speak with you about selecting and implementing the right testing approach for your organization.
We currently offer RT-PCR tests collected using anterior nares (AN or nasal) swabs. We continually monitor developments in technology and collection methods, and will work with organizations to incorporate the appropriate testing approach for their needs.
Today, all collection is done under the supervision of a qualified clinician, observing the latest guidance on proper testing procedures and practices.
No, the tests do not use nasal pharyngeal swabs, which can be uncomfortable to use and challenging to administer. Instead, in line with FDA guidance, we use anterior nares (AN or nasal) swab collection, which are rubbed in the front of the nostril (much like a Q-tip).
Tests are processed at the CRSP lab at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, a CLIA-certified lab, and have an FDA Emergency Use Authorization.
Test results are typically available the following day, but may on rare occasions take as long as three business days.
Our goal is to dramatically increase the number of accessible and affordable tests in Massachusetts. Our laboratory partner, the Broad Institute, can currently process 35,000 tests a day and has the capacity to ramp-up to 100,000 tests a day in the coming months. With the latest research into improved testing methodology, this number could climb significantly higher.
Project Beacon is currently focused only on scaling up testing efforts in Massachusetts. We intend to be a resource for anyone that wishes to learn from our experience – including other cities, states, and countries. If you are interested in learning from our experience to scale up testing in your community, please contact us.
We welcome support of all kinds. If you are interested in contributing to this effort, please contact us.