Pharmacy Rapid Antigen Testing

What is a Rapid Antigen Test?

A rapid antigen test (RAT), or rapid test, is a rapid diagnostic test suitable for point-of-care testing that directly detects the presence or absence of an antigen. It is commonly used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Rapid tests are a type of lateral flow tests that detect protein, distinguishing it from other medical tests that detect antibodies (antibody tests) or nucleic acid (nucleic acid tests), of either laboratory or point-of-care types.

Roche SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test

SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test determines if someone is infected by detecting the presence of viral material. The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test is quick and easy to use – for clinical professional use only. The selected test offers a 5-point, Point of Care testing solution for SARS-CoV-2, giving a clear result after 15 minutes.

Benefits of Antigen Testing

The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test enables fast decision making e.g., whether patients need to be put in quarantine, reducing the risk of further spreading. In addition, it allows for screening of individuals after confirmed exposure to a SARS-CoV-2 infected person or individuals at risk of exposure such as healthcare workers. The benefits of the SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test include:

• Getting a quick result within 15-30 minutes – no need for a follow-up appointment to discuss the result
• Easy handling which does not require specific training
• No instrument required
• Allowing decentralized testing or access to testing in areas where laboratory testing is not available

Wider benefits of providing a COVID-19 testing service through community pharmacy include:

• Identifying asymptomatic infections and limiting spread of the virus
• Assisting patients in complying with public health and travel guidelines
• Reach patients that may be more comfortable with the pharmacy than other healthcare providers
• Increase awareness of preventative measures, transmission risks, and the benefits of vaccination.