Quick access to testing is critical to identify people who have contracted COVID-19. As soon as they know they have the disease, they can self-isolate to focus on their health and to prevent COVID-19 from spreading.
What tests are available?
Understand the different COVID-19 tests
| Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) molecular tests | Antigen tests |
|---|---|
| This kind of test is usually called a 'PCR' or 'RT-PCR' test. | Antigen tests are also called 'rapid diagnostic tests'. |
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| Read more on PCR testing. | Read more on Antigen testing. |
There is also a third type of test available - an antibody test - that is useful in identifying people who have already had the infection and may no longer be infectious. This type of test is not used to diagnose an active COVID-19 infection.
Where to get tested for COVID-19
PCR testing
You only have cover for a PCR test if you see your doctor, you have symptoms of COVID-19, and your doctor refers you to a pathology lab for the test. Discovery Health Medical Scheme members are encouraged to see their doctors and discuss possible testing.
Antigen testing
Discovery Health Medical Scheme members can access antigen testing at one of our network providers:
- PathCare, when referred by the doctor who screened you
- Selected GP practices (use our Find a doctor page and ask your GP whether or not they do antigen testing and make a booking)
Find more COVID-19 testing sites around the country
Important information
Does my medical aid cover the costs?
Each member of Discovery Health Medical Scheme have access to two COVID-19 PCR and two Rapid Antigen tests, per year, as long as you use a network provider. If you use a non-network provider or you have already used the available two tests, you have to pay for the test yourself. Screening tests are covered in full when referred to PathCare by the doctor that screened you, or when you have your screening at a Dis-Chem pharmacy, where a nurse will screen you prior to the test being performed. This includes pre-admission PCR testing for approved hospital admissions, when referred by the doctor that screened you.
What happens once I receive my results?
If the laboratory test shows that you have COVID-19, the doctor who referred you for the test should call you. If a pharmacy nurse screened you, call your doctor to discuss what to do next.
How to keep safe and stay updated
Visit our hotspot page to stay up to date on the number of COVID-19 infections in your area.
Visit our COVID-19 hub to find out about COVID-19 vaccines and the national vaccine rollout programme.
The Discovery Health Medical Scheme is an independent non-profit entity governed by the Medical Schemes Act, and regulated by the Council for Medical Schemes. It is administered by a separate company, Discovery Health (Pty) Ltd, an authorised financial services provider.