It's been a while since I've pointed this out, but the PCR test cannot discern between a live virus or the a fragment of a dead virus. The test only detects the DNA for which it tests.
Also in the realm of IIRC ... IIRC, being infectious declines earlier than symptoms. I certainly had reduced lung function for a month or so after being released from the hospital. The first week after coming home, just taking a shower was exhausting (literally, not hyperbole). IOW, healthcare provider #1 is probably giving AllaN01Bear accurate info, and healthcare provider #2 will probably say much the same. But if AllaN01Bear decides to basementize for a few years or decades, I won't object to there being one less fear-controlled loon wandering America's streets.