Ann: TGA Registration Update, page-1722

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has approved rapid antigen tests for two different settings: at home through self-testing and point-of-care environments, such as workplaces, aged and residential care facilities. The latter must be performed by trained health professionals.

A spokesman for the health watchdog said it was reviewing its guidance to clarify the use of point of care rapid antigen tests, with this information to be provided to health practitioners, including pharmacists.

Mark Greenway was swabbed at the Clarinda pharmacy on Thursday afternoon after his partner tested positive to COVID-19 and he developed a fever.

He’d driven to three local drive-through testing centres earlier in the day only to find they were either at capacity or had long queues. The previous day he’d visited six pharmacies in a fruitless search for rapid antigen tests.

“I admired the fact that they are only charging $25, some people are charging up to $40 for a single test that you have to do yourself. The pharmacist is out there working his butt off.”

He’d like to see more pharmacies offering the service. “It’s a great idea if they haven’t got the proper take-home tests,” he said.

Fortunately, Mr Greenway’s test was negative, so he now attributes his symptoms to side effects of the booster shot he received on Wednesday.

Pharmacy Guild of Victoria president Anthony Tassone said his members were still struggling to source at-home rapid antigen tests.

He said overworked pharmacy staff were already receiving inquiries from customers wanting free antigen tests following Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s announcement that concession card holders would receive 10 free rapid antigen tests over three months.

“It is important for the public to understand that it is not [yet] in place, so please don’t go to your pharmacy asking for a free rapid antigen test,” he said.

The TGA was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

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