FAQS
WHICH VIDEO CONFERENCE PLATFORMS DO YOU USE?
Pandemic Healthcare Solutions is able to communicate with you through Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Chat
WOULD I HAVE TO ATTEND A TESTING HUB FOR A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST?
No, for sole traders we can provide you with training and also a full box of test kits. We can then supervise your RAT via telehealth. For businesses with a number of employees we will provide training and supervision to a nominated person at your workplace to conduct the tests
WHAT IS RAPID ANTIGEN TESTING?
Rapid Antigen Testing is a screening tool to assist in the detection of COVID-19. The Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) is quick, easy and displays a result within 10 to 20 minutes.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE TEST BE USED?
Every 24-72 hours depending on the work environment and what your employer has requested. The manufacturer recommends daily (every 24 hours) for best practice and no less than every 72 hours.
WHY RETEST SO FREQUENTLY?
Testing using the RAT – more frequent testing reduces the windows of time in order to capture your infectious period if you become COVID positive. Is testing mandatory?
This will depend on your occupation and your workplace. Workers are encouraged to undertake a test to benefit and protect themselves, their colleagues and family.
WHY DO I HAVE TO HAVE A RAT TEST IF I AM VACCINATED?
Vaccination does not prevent you from contracting the virus and spreading it to others. You may feel well, and have no symptoms, but still be able to pass on the virus to others.
IF I HAVE A POSITIVE PCR COVID-19 TEST, WHEN CAN I START THE RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS AGAIN?
90 days after their positive test a person who tested positive would recommence home testing. Health practitioners would recommence RAT testing according to their organisations policies and protocols.
DO THE TEST KITS NEED SPECIAL STORAGE?
No, as long as they are protected from the weather conditions (dry and cool) and should normally be kept between 2 and 30 degrees Celsius. Cold chain is not required for transportation. Do not leave out in the direct sunlight
IF I AM TESTING AT HOME, SHOULD THE USED KIT BE DISPOSED IN THE CLINICAL WASTE?
No, this can be disposed of in the regular waste. However, the remaining solution should be poured away prior to disposing of the used test kit
HOW ACCURATE ARE RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS?
Rapid antigen tests will detect most cases of COVID-19. While a positive result is indicative of COVID-19, and a negative test does not completely exclude COVID-19. RAT validation has a Specificity of 99.3% and sensitivity of 94% and is effective at detecting the Delta variation. A PCR test is more sensitive than a Rapid Antigen Test. Isolating immediately after your positive result, or if symptomatic, can help break chains of transmission and limit the spread of COVID-19 at your workplace.
WILL MY DATA BE COLLECTED?
Data collected related to testing will only be used to inform Public Health decisions. None of your personal health data is used without your consent.