The best way to test for COVID-19 is through a PCR test. However, a second test - called an antigen test - provides a faster, relatively cheap and alternative form of testing.

 

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests (R850) - the gold standard for testing, as it is the most sensitive (high chance of picking up an infection when it is present in your body).

Results take from 24 to 48 hours. Recommended for people who have symptoms of COVID-19, travellers and patients requiring hospital admission.

PCR testing is covered by MHC from risk if positive. It is important to note that if a pharmacy submits a PCR claim it will be rejected as there is no tariff code available for the test at a Pharmacy. PCR claims submitted by the laboratory will

be accepted and assessed as per the benefits/COVID 19 mandate.

 

Antigen tests (R350) - an important alternative to PCR tests

• Useful in identifying people who have already had a COVID-19 infection and may no longer be infectious
• NOT used to diagnose an active (current) COVID-19 infection
• Provide results within 60 minutes

 

Moto Health Care only covers Covid Antigen tests in specific PMB and other clinical scenarios, such as

• triaging in a casualty environment,
• for non-elective maternity admissions
•  prior to transfer to another facility.

 

Anti- body tests (R150) which MHC does not cover, as this is usually included in clinical trials and research purposes.

 

Benefits per option:

 

OPTION	PCR test (R850) at a laboratory with a positive result	PCR test (R850) at a laboratory with a negative result	Antigen (R350) or Anti-body (R150) test with a positive or negative result (unless for specific scenarios as indicated above)
Essential	Paid	Not covered	Not covered
Custom	Paid	Not covered	Not covered
Hospicare & Hospicare Network	Paid	Not covered	Not covered
Classic and Classic Network	Paid	Paid from available savings	Not covered
Optimum	Paid	Paid from Day to day benefits available	Not covered

 

Note; for more information on the Covid-19 virus visit  www.sacoronavirus.co.za