Learn about rapid antigen testing and access to free rapid antigen tests from the government.
Overview
The Provincial Antigen Testing Program (PATP) provides select health care providers (such as, primary care providers and pharmacists) access to free rapid antigen tests for use on patients with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection who would be eligible for COVID-19 treatment if they tested positive. Long-term care homes, some congregate living settings and other specific populations that require testing to support outbreak prevention and management are also eligible to order free rapid antigen tests through the PATP. Check your eligibility and apply below.
With lower rates of COVID-19 infection in the community, higher vaccination rates, and reduced demand, the provincial public distribution programs providing free antigen test kits to the public have wound down.
What you need to know before you apply
The Provincial Antigen Testing Program provides access to rapid antigen tests to health care providers for use on patients with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection who would be eligible for COVID-19 treatment if they tested positive, and for those in long-term care homes and some congregate living settings who require testing to support outbreak prevention and management.
A rapid antigen test is a point-of-care test that looks for proteins from the COVID-19 virus and provides results within several minutes.
Program requirements
Health care providers, long-term care homes, some congregate living settings and other specific populations taking part in the PATP are required to:
- agree to the program terms and conditions
- review the COVID-19 testing and treatment website and training materials
- order their free rapid antigen tests from the distribution partner responsible for their sector
- properly handle and dispose of used tests
Anyone who is “trained” can perform a test
Rapid antigen tests can be performed anywhere by a person on themselves, a health professional, or any trained individual.
Review testing guidance and training resources
For more information review:
- About the Provincial Antigen Testing Program (PATP)
- COVID-19 testing and treatment
- COVID-19 workplace safety plan guidance
Continue to use other prevention methods
Rapid antigen testing works together with other COVID-19 infection prevention methods. Once testing is introduced, continue to use PPE, wash hands and practice appropriate distancing.
Safely dispose of hazardous waste
Waste generated from rapid antigen tests is considered hazardous under the Environmental Protection Act. Review Safe handling and management of rapid antigen COVID-19 testing waste to learn about the requirements and exemptions to safely dispose of rapid antigen tests.
Isolate if you get a positive rapid antigen test
If you test positive using a rapid antigen test, it is highly likely you have COVID-19. You should stay home when sick, except to get health care, and follow the guidance on how long to stay home and self-isolate and on additional precautions to take.
You do not need to get a PCR or rapid molecular test to confirm a result from a rapid antigen test.
Use your free tests ethically
Any rapid antigen test that is provided free of charge by the government is not to be re-distributed or re-sold under any circumstance, nor are sites allowed to charge individuals for rapid antigen tests.