is PCR test free in NZ? Asking because I've been advised it isn't free and cost $$$

Forums › Health and fitness › is PCR test free in NZ? Asking because I've been advised it isn't free and cost $$$

NglButiLoveTechnolog

74 posts

Master Geek

#299143 15-Aug-2022 10:03

I'm wondering whether PCR tests are free or not? was told by the practice nurses that NZ laws have recently changed and now PCR tests cost money... is this true? I returned from a days trip to Christchurch and came back not feeling well so I tested myself with RAT test and got a negative. however, for reassurance and safety for the NZ community and also still didn't feel well, I want a PCR Test done for confirmation so I called local medical centre and they advised they charge for PCR test now... really confused

wellygary

7377 posts

Uber Geek

#2954754 15-Aug-2022 10:07

I'm guessing ti depends on why you want/need a PCR test?

MoH say

"Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests: PCRs are still being used in some situations. Results take between 2 and 5 days. PCR tests detect all COVID-19 variants."

https://covid19.govt.nz/testing-and-tracing/covid-19-testing/how-to-get-a-covid-19-test/#types-of-tests

But, travel tests have never been free,

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Quinny

812 posts

Ultimate Geek

Trusted

#2954755 15-Aug-2022 10:08

I "think" pre-departure you pay, RAT free, and if the doctor requests free.

https://covid19.govt.nz/testing-and-tracing/covid-19-testing/how-to-get-a-covid-19-test/

NglButiLoveTechnolog

74 posts

Master Geek

#2954759 15-Aug-2022 10:11

wellygary:

I'm guessing ti depends on why you want/need a PCR test?

MoH say

"Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests: PCRs are still being used in some situations. Results take between 2 and 5 days. PCR tests detect all COVID-19 variants."

https://covid19.govt.nz/testing-and-tracing/covid-19-testing/how-to-get-a-covid-19-test/#types-of-tests

But, travel tests have never been free,

I returned from a days trip to Christchurch and came back not feeling well so I tested myself with RAT test and got a negative. however, for reassurance and safety for the NZ community and also still didn't feel well, I want a PCR Test done for confirmation so I called local medical centre and they advised they charge for PCR test now... really confused

wellygary

7377 posts

Uber Geek

#2954760 15-Aug-2022 10:15

NglButiLoveTechnolog:

wellygary:

I'm guessing ti depends on why you want/need a PCR test?

MoH say

"Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests: PCRs are still being used in some situations. Results take between 2 and 5 days. PCR tests detect all COVID-19 variants."

https://covid19.govt.nz/testing-and-tracing/covid-19-testing/how-to-get-a-covid-19-test/#types-of-tests

But, travel tests have never been free,

I returned from a days trip to Christchurch and came back not feeling well so I tested myself with RAT test and got a negative. however, for reassurance and safety for the NZ community and also still didn't feel well, I want a PCR Test done for confirmation so I called local medical centre and they advised they charge for PCR test now... really confused

Wait a day or two and do anther RAT,

You will unlikely get a free PCR without a medical recommendation,

NglButiLoveTechnolog

74 posts

Master Geek

#2954762 15-Aug-2022 10:17

okay sounds great. Thanks for the advice

Eva888

1779 posts

Uber Geek

Lifetime subscriber

#2954763 15-Aug-2022 10:21

I would call Healthline if concerned and follow their advice. They are very helpful and can talk you through the options.

Jase2985

12347 posts

Uber Geek

ID Verified

Lifetime subscriber

#2954913 15-Aug-2022 15:21

you dont need a PCR, just do another RAT in a couple of days.

if you are feeling unwell stay home.

allan

1892 posts

Uber Geek

ID Verified

Lifetime subscriber

#2955037 15-Aug-2022 18:41

Personally both my wife and I found that the result from a RAT test was much stronger (i.e. the line was much bolder) a few days after the first symptoms. As others have said, do another RAT test again in a few days.

GSManiac

455 posts

Ultimate Geek

#2955053 15-Aug-2022 19:49

PCR testing is free. If you’ve returned 2x negative RATS you can go get a confirmatory PCR if still symptomatic.

The only testing that costs money is a supervised test for international travel.

boosacnoodle

651 posts

Ultimate Geek

#2955458 16-Aug-2022 23:46

What you have been told is right. PCR tests are now only funded if you meet specified criteria of which "wanting to be sure" is not one of them.

GSManiac: PCR testing is free. If you’ve returned 2x negative RATS you can go get a confirmatory PCR if still symptomatic.

The only testing that costs money is a supervised test for international travel.

Citation please.