Pacific · Hepatitis C RNA Test
Hepatitis C RNA Test in California
Hepatitis C RNA Test is a laboratory test you can request directly. A hepatitis C RNA test detects the genetic material of the hepatitis C virus in a blood sample. It is used to identify current infection and to guide follow-up care.
Lab requirements in California
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Hepatitis C RNA Test in CA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- No special preparation is usually needed, but follow the instructions provided by the collection laboratory. They will tell you if any fasting or other steps are required.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This test looks for ribonucleic acid (RNA) from the hepatitis C virus using a molecular method. It can show whether the virus is present and, in some cases, estimate how much virus is in the blood. It is different from antibody tests, which show past or present exposure but not active infection.
What it measures
- Hepatitis C virus RNA — Indicates whether the virus is present in the blood
- Viral load (when reported) — Shows the amount of virus in the blood
- Genotype (if ordered separately) — Identifies the specific strain of the virus
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a standard blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test after a positive hepatitis C antibody test to see if the virus is currently active. It can also be used to monitor treatment response or to check for infection after a possible exposure.
Preparation
No special preparation is usually needed, but follow the instructions provided by the collection laboratory. They will tell you if any fasting or other steps are required.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as detected or not detected, and sometimes with a viral load number. Reference ranges and reporting formats vary by laboratory, so always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
Before you go
- Whether any preparation steps are needed before your blood draw
- How and when you will receive your test results
- Whether your insurance covers the test or if there are out-of-pocket costs
Cities
Hepatitis C RNA Test in California communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.