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

129 posts

Master Geek
+1 received by user: 6

#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

8810 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 5287

#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,

Quinny

926 posts

Ultimate Geek
+1 received by user: 208

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

129 posts

Master Geek
+1 received by user: 6

#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

8810 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 5287

#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

129 posts

Master Geek
+1 received by user: 6

#2954762 15-Aug-2022 10:17

okay sounds great. Thanks for the advice

Eva888

2762 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 2425

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.

Mighty Ape

Shop now at Mighty Ape (affiliate link).

Jase2985

13730 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 6202

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

2073 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 899

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

494 posts

Ultimate Geek
+1 received by user: 273

#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

1270 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 855

#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.