Eligible criteria to receive a free PCR test in Ontario
Jan. 27, 2023
Global Korean Post
People can continue to use rapid antigen tests (RATs) at home to confirm COVID-19 infection to obtain treatment.
However, for high-risk patients eligible for Paxlovid who are experiencing symptoms but are testing negative by RAT, a PCR test is recommended to confirm a diagnosis and meet the five-day treatment window.
Anyone with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 who meets any of the following criteria will now be eligible to receive a free PCR test for COVID-19 diagnosis:
- People aged 60 years of age and older
- People aged 18 years of age and older who have at least one condition that puts them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease
- People aged 18 years of age and older who are unvaccinated or have not had their first round of vaccinations (e.g. their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines)
- People aged 18 years of age and older who have received their first round of vaccinations (or primary series) AND received their last COVID-19 vaccine dose more than 6 months ago AND have not had a COVID-19 infection in the past 6 months
- People who are immunocompromised
- Pregnant people
- Patients seeking emergency medical care or other outpatients where the health care professional judges it to be necessary
- Health care workers providing patient care
- Staff, volunteers, residents/inpatients, essential care providers, and visitors in highest risk settings including hospitals and congregate living settings with medically and socially vulnerable individuals, including international agriculture workers.
- Household members of staff in highest risk settings and patient-facing health care workers
- Home and community care workers
- People who are underhoused or experiencing homelessness
- First responders, including firefighters, police and paramedics.
