What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you've been diagnosed with Hepatitis C or exposed to the virus and need to know if it's actively replicating in your body. It measures the exact amount of virus in your blood, helping your doctor determine how active the infection is and whether treatment is needed. Many people use this test to monitor treatment effectiveness or confirm whether the virus has been cleared after therapy.

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is typically required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before your blood draw, and you don't need to stop taking any medications. Simply schedule your appointment at a convenient time and allow a few minutes for the blood sample collection.

What's included in this test?

This test measures HCV RNA Quantitative Real-Time PCR, which detects the actual genetic material of the Hepatitis C virus in your bloodstream. This advanced molecular test not only confirms active infection but also quantifies how much virus is present, providing crucial information for treatment decisions and monitoring. The viral load measurement helps your healthcare provider assess disease progression and treatment effectiveness with precision.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your viral load means for your liver health and treatment options. These notes include personalized recommendations about lifestyle changes to protect your liver, when to follow up with a hepatologist, and whether antiviral treatment is recommended. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your viral load over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful for monitoring treatment response.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically available within 5-7 business days after your blood sample reaches the laboratory. This molecular test requires specialized PCR equipment and processing, which takes a bit longer than standard blood tests. You'll receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready to view securely online.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is essential for anyone diagnosed with Hepatitis C who needs to confirm active infection or monitor treatment progress. It's also important if you've been exposed to HCV through blood contact, shared needles, or other high-risk situations and need to verify infection status. Healthcare workers with needle stick injuries and people receiving ongoing treatment for Hepatitis C should consider regular testing.

What does a high viral load mean?

A high viral load means there's a significant amount of Hepatitis C virus actively replicating in your body. This doesn't necessarily mean your liver damage is severe, but it does indicate the infection is active and may benefit from antiviral treatment. High viral loads before treatment are actually associated with good treatment response rates with modern medications.

What does a low or undetectable viral load mean?

A low viral load means there's minimal virus present, while an undetectable result means the test couldn't find any virus in your blood. If you're on treatment, an undetectable viral load is excellent news and indicates the medication is working effectively. An undetectable result 12 weeks after completing treatment typically means you're cured of Hepatitis C.

How can I naturally support my liver health with Hepatitis C?

Supporting liver health involves avoiding alcohol completely, as it accelerates liver damage with Hepatitis C. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise, as fatty liver can worsen hepatitis-related damage. Stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary medications that stress the liver, and eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts to help protect liver cells.

How often should I retest my Hepatitis C viral load?

Testing frequency depends on your treatment status. If you're undergoing antiviral therapy, your doctor will typically test at 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and at the end of treatment to monitor response. After successful treatment, you'll need testing at 12 and 24 weeks post-treatment to confirm cure. If you're not being treated, your doctor may recommend testing every 6-12 months to monitor disease activity.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hepatitis C Viral Load Test - Monitor HCV Treatment

Why choose us

Pay $1 to startPay $1 to start New customers pay the remaining balance after results are ready

Balance after resultsBalance after results

Pay in fullPay in full

Next day results for many testsNext day results for many tests Each result is released as soon as it is ready

Delivered in real timeDelivered in real time

NoNo

Find the exact test you needFind the exact test you need Choose from the largest selections of blood tests available online

3,000+ tests3,000+ tests

NoNo

Clear next stepsClear next steps Understand your results in plain English

Next step includedPlain-English results

NoNo

Talk to a real personHuman support Experienced human support is available

Text, phone & emailText, phone & email

NoEmail / phone

Easy & free appointment changesEasy & free appointment changes Easily move dates, times & lab locations

As often as you needAs often as you need

NoNo

Every order reviewed by a physicianPhysician reviewed Licensed physician review before testing

Every orderEvery order

NoNo

Manage the whole family in one accountFamily accounts Manage everyone together, including under-18

Yes, incl. under-18Yes, incl. under-18

NoN/A

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]