Convenience and Accuracy of Home Testing Kits

Image credit: athometesting.org

How long does a home use test take?

Home use tests can be used anywhere, including at home or work. They can be used without the involvement of a doctor or health professional. Most tests produce a result within 10-20 minutes. When should I use the test? The tests are more reliable when used by a person with COVID-19 symptoms, and less reliable when used by a person without symptoms.

Where can I buy a home use test in Australia?

Home use tests are available from pharmacies, supermarkets, retail outlets and online. Only tests approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) are legally permitted to be sold in Australia. The TGA website has a list of the approved home use tests, along with a copy of the manufacturer’s instructions for each test. How do I use the test?

When will home testing be available?

Health Minister Greg Hunt said test manufacturers could now apply for use-at-home authorisation, with approval expected within a month. "Home testing will be available from November 1, obviously subject to individual tests being approved as safe and effective," Mr Hunt said.

What happens if a home use test fails?

Home use tests may produce an ‘invalid’ result, which means it has not worked correctly. If this happens, you should throw it away and do another home use test, or if you are unwell and have symptoms, get a PCR test at a testing site. How regularly should I use home use tests?

How do I report a problem with a home use test?

Problems or issues with home use tests can be reported directly to the supplier/sponsor of the test or to the place where you purchased the test. You can also report problems to the Therapeutic Goods Administration online at Report a problem or side effect.

What Is Home Testing

1. https://www.tga.gov.au/products/covid-19/covid-19-tests/covid-19-rapid-antigen-self-tests-home-use/covid-19-home-use-tests
2. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid-19/testing
3. https://www.health.gov.au/topics/covid-19/testing
4. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html

Home Testing Information

1. https://education.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/main-education/en/home/covid-19/advice-for-families/Consumer-fact-sheet-rapid-antigen-home-tests.pdf