The distribution of rapid antigen tests (RATs) in Tasmania is being improved, with a new, more localised system that will lead to faster, safer, and more convenient access to testing.
The Tasmanian Government recognises that access to testing is critical in the ongoing detection of COVID, which is why today we announced our updated COVID testing strategy to improve the distribution of RATs in Tasmania, particularly for people in regional areas.
We have commenced our contactless next-day delivery service of free RAT kits to people who live in regional and rural areas of the State and have symptoms or are a close contact. This service will also be available for people who are unable to travel to a collection centre and are unable to have another person collect a RAT on their behalf.
Anyone accessing a RAT through this delivery service will need to register for a RAT online on the coronavirus.tas.gov.au website.
The way Tasmanians access Rapid Antigen Tests from distribution centres is also changing.
It will no longer be possible to turn up and collect a RAT without first successfully requesting a test.
From midday tomorrow (January 14), if you have symptoms, are a close contact of a positive case, or have been advised by Public Health to take a test, you must go to the Coronavirus website and complete the ‘Get a Rapid Antigen Test' online form. If you are unable to use the website to register, you can call the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738 for assistance.
Once this is done, you will receive a message directing you to a collection point to pick up the RAT kit allocated specifically for you.
If there are specific and exceptional circumstances (such as disability, health, or lack of access to transport) that mean you cannot attend a collection site, or have someone attend on your behalf, you can contact the Public Health Hotline and alternative arrangements will be made.
This new system will streamline access to RATs for people across the State, as well as reduce queuing and waiting times at collection centres.
People are also able to purchase RATs from pharmacies or supermarkets if they prefer, and people with concession cards will be provided free RATs by the Commonwealth Government through pharmacies in the coming weeks.
Importantly, PCR testing remains available for people who require it, with significant capacity currently available at State PCR Testing Clinics for anyone with symptoms, a close contact, or having trouble accessing or using a Rapid Antigen Test. A PCR test can be booked for a State Clinic online or by calling the Public Health Hotline.
Finally, we understand there have been challenges in the North West in relation to the timely provision of PCR test results. The RHH lab will temporarily step in to support the private provider in Burnie with processing which we expect should result in a significant reduction in turnaround times.
The health and safety of Tasmanians remain our number one priority as we continue to live with COVID-19 in our community, and we will continue to keep Tasmanians informed at every step moving forward as the pandemic continues to evolve.