COVID-19 assessment and testing

Yes

If you need to travel to see a health professional, a face mask should be worn. For example, people with symptoms of COVID-19 who are asked to undertake a test should wear a face mask during their travel to the appropriate testing facility.

For current advice visit the Ministy of Health website.

Test results from swabs are generally available within 2-5 days from your GP

If positive, the Waikato Public Health Unit will notify you, and work with you to manage your health.

You will be greeted by healthcare staff wearing personal protective equipment.

At the drive-thru/walk-thru centre, you will be asked COVID-19 screening questions to work out if a swab is needed (this can be done over the phone by Healthline). A swab may be done in a dedicated testing space by staff or from inside your car.

If you visit your General Practitioner, they may be operating slightly differently and be using green / yellow / red zones to streamline and manage people with or without respiratory symptoms. This helps protect patients and staff from respiratory infections.

If you meet the Ministry of Health’s Higher Index of suspicion (HIS) – you will be asked to self-isolate.

If you are swabbed for cold or flu like symptoms, you may be required to self-isolate, but you should not go to work if you are sick to prevent spreading your infection to others.

The test results are much less reliable when testing is done in people who do not have symptoms. A medical professional either at Healthline or at the centre can determine whether you need testing, based on the information you provide. Only attend the centre if you have symptoms.

For general guidance on COVID-19, the Ministry of Health has good information and resources for you to stay safe: www.COVID19.govt.nz