What is the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test?
A COVID-19 rapid antigen test is a screening test that typically takes 15 – 30 minutes to have results, to identify if you potentially do or do not have the COVID-19 virus.
• The COVID-19 rapid antigen test is used for screening purposes only and NOT for diagnostic purposes
• Rapid antigen test does not replace public health measures such as vaccination, symptom screening, physical distancing,
masking, hand hygiene and self-isolation (when required or recommended)
• If your test result is negative, you may still go on to develop COVID-19 if you have been exposed in the last 14 days
What is the difference between PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing for COVID-19?
Rapid antigen tests are different from PCR tests. You are able to get quick results to help identify who should continue to self-isolate, get diagnostic tests, and prevent spreading COVID-19 to places such as offices/ workplaces, schools, and the community. PCR is a diagnostic test that require the sample to be sent to a lab and analyzed. This can take upwards of 24 hours。
What does a positive test result mean?
A positive test result means a high likelihood that you have COVID-19 because viral proteins that causes COVID-19 were found in your sample.
• By law, you must self-isolate and responsible for arranging confirmatory PCR (diagnostic) testing at an approved provincial
testing site
• We are required to report positive result from rapid antigen test to local health authority for follow-up
• You must remain self-isolated until you receive negative result from confirmatory PCR (diagnostics) test or further direction from local public health authority
• Positive COVID-19 rapid antigen test may be false positive. This means you do not have the virus and you cannot pass it to
anyone if confirmatory PCR test show negative result
Authorization and Consent for COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing:
I voluntarily consent and authorize this clinic to conduct collection, testing, and analysis of an appropriate sample for the purposes of a COVID-19 screening test. I acknowledge and understand that my COVID-19 screening test will require the collection of such appropriate sample by the trained medical staff or authorized agent through a nasal swab, supervised self-collection or other recommended collection procedures. I understand that there are risks and benefits associated with undergoing a screening test for COVID-19 and there may be a potential for false positive or false negative test results. I assume complete and full responsibility to take appropriate action with regards to my test results. Should I have question or concerns regarding my results, or a worsening of my condition, I shall promptly seek advice and treatment from an appropriate medical provider.
I and/or my agent understand this clinic provides no warranty or representation that suggest the results of this COVID-19 rapid antigen test will result in me and/or my agent admission to the destination to which we intend to travel or the purposes for which this test was required. In addition, we agree that at no time shall this clinic or affiliates be held liable for any losses or outcomes from our inability to gain admission to our destination of travel or the purposes for which this test is required.
Acknowledgement:
During the registration process for COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing at this clinic, I acknowledge and agree that I have read, understand, and agreed to the statements contained within this form. I have been informed about the purpose of the COVID-19 rapid antigen test, procedures to be performed, potential risks and benefits, and associated costs. I have been provided an opportunity to ask questions before proceeding with a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and I understand that if I do not wish to continue with the collection, testing, or analysis of a COVID-19 rapid antigen test, I may decline to receive continued services. I have read the contents of this form in its entirety and voluntarily consent to undergo rapid antigen test for COVID-19.