Communities struggle to access, afford rapid antigen tests

Australians are being urged to exercise personal responsibility when it comes to COVID19, but many can't access or afford rapid antigen tests. With the push to have more people undergo at-home rapid tests, community leaders say there's been a struggle in parts of the country to obtain them. The Prime Minister has ruled out making rapid tests free to the public, as some question if Scott Morrison is protecting business interests over people's health.

Signs indicating that this chemist is out of Covid-19 rapid antigen tests (RAT) are seen, Brisbane Sunday, January 2, 2022. Image/Danny Casey) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP

As demand for at-home testing kits soar across the country, families and organisations alike are struggling to get their hands on them.

The Federal Government will spend 375 million dollars on rapid tests, but they will only be free for confirmed COVID19 cases, close contacts, and in high-risk settings such as aged care.

Stephen Duckett, Health Program Director at Grattan Institute, asks why the Federal Government failed to ensure an adequate supply of rapid antigen tests in the nation's reopening plan.

On average, each test in Australia costs around 15 dollars.

But, in recent days, some people have reported paying up to 25, even more than 50 dollars per pack.

Pharmacies deny price gouging, with David Heffernan from the Pharmacy Guild of Australia saying many are struggling to cover their costs.

 

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