Government testing crumbles but there is an alternative.
A reader writes in:
We seem to have daily headlines about PCR testing delays. Today I walked into a Rako centre in Aucklands CBD and paid for a test. It’s in my interest to work knowing I’m not infecting others or to get back to work quickly if I become a contact and am not infectious. I should have a result late tonight from Rako, within a few hours. Last week’s test result came in 6 hours.
Here’s the crazy part:
1. Rako doesn’t pool samples so no need for re-testing.
2. Their process is simpler so speedier.
3. They can scale up to more than 10,000/day
4. They offered their technology to the govt for other labs over a year ago.
5. They are picking up Covid before some NP tests due to virus compartmentalisation.
6. They continue to provide sub 24 hr tests.
Business needs to be aware you can access these tests for staff to get people back to work quickly.
I’m classified as a critical worker so theoretically get access to RAT’s once I get symptoms or become a close contact.
As a health practitioner I’m in the highest risk category set by the MoH because I work in close proximity to a maskless individual generating aerosol. I know RATs are less reliable than saliva PCR so I chose to pay to do surveillance to keep my patients, family and staff protected in the absence of readily available RATs. Worried well? Maybe, but I’m paying so it’s my call.
My concern is that business will be crippled by delays in testing for close contacts. Staff are sitting at home waiting for results when they could get a same-day outcome and be back to work. It’s the topic of constant frustration amongst business mates who are not critical workers.
I can’t understand why Rako is not supported, promoted or subsidised by the govt. Can you shed any light on the issue and raise the question on your platform please.
I have no financial interest in Rako and pay for my own tests as a self employed health professional. I’m just intensely frustrated at the mindless media headlines when there is an alternative which could be subsidised. Please shed some light on this ridiculous situation.
A great letter and the sad answer is that Rako offended the Government so punishing Rako was seen as more important than better health outcomes for New Zealanders.