Coronavirus Tests in Hong Kong: Where to Go?

There is currently an explosion of information, comments and opinions on COVID-19 on the internet and social media. We believe that on serious topics in general, and on public health matters in particular, it is essential to rely on facts and seek credible, expert information. Our mission at AD MediLink remains to bring you the best information and advice, so you can make the best choices for you and your family. 

Where to get tested for COVID-19 in Hong Kong? Who is eligible? How much does it cost?

The AD MediLink team has done the research, so you don’t have to.

Which COVID-19 tests are available in Hong Kong?

Three types of tests are available in Hong Kong:

– One of them is a DNA test done by swabbing for lower respiratory tract specimens through the nose or throat and analyzed in a lab (the CDC recommends the nose swab for more accurate results).

– Another is a blood test performed in a clinic or hospital and analyzed in a lab.

– The last one is a finger prick blood test you can do yourself from home.*

* it is important to note that this at-home test cannot be used as the sole basis for diagnosis and that further testing will be required in the event of a positive result. 

How does COVID-19 testing work?

For the swab (ie. the DNA test), laboratories compare the genetic material obtained with the genetic code of the virus. Results for swab tests will usually take a couple of days but some places offer next day results.

As for blood tests, the blood will be tested for antibodies fighting COVID-19. Blood tests done in clinics or hospitals can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days but the at-home finger prick tests only take 15 minutes.

For the latest news about COVID-19, read our daily update.

Coronavirus testing in public hospitals

There are 43 public hospitals in Hong Kong. To get tested in a public hospital, you will first need to see a doctor at that hospital for a consultation. The consultation fee for public hospitals is $180. The doctor you see will determine your eligibility for a test (depending on your symptoms, travel history and any close contact with people who tested positive for COVID-19).

If it is determined that you are eligible, a nasal swab test will be done. The test is free. The only service you will have to pay for is the $180 doctor consultation.

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) has set up a hotline for any public enquiry about COVID-19 : +852 2125 1122. The Hong Kong government has also set up a page with all of the latest local developments.

Coronavirus testing in private hospitals

There are 12 private hospitals in Hong Kong. Below are the ones offering COVID-19 tests within their outpatient departments. Tests are done in person unless specified otherwise.

Please note that some outpatient clinics may not accept suspected or high risk cases and prefer sending these patients to the public sector.

* Canossa Hospital (Caritas), Hong Kong Baptist, St Paul’s Hospital and St Teresa Hospital did not offer COVID-19 testing when we checked (March 26, 2020). Union Hospital could not provide the information.

Coronavirus testing in private clinics

A number of private clinics now offer COVID-19 testing. Here are some of the ones that do according to our research.

*Last updated on March 27 2020. All amounts are in HKD. No responsibility is accepted for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. It is always best to call ahead to make sure the information is still up-to-date.

If you have an emergency or need to see a doctor, we’ve put together a practical guide.

At-home coronavirus-19 test

A number of companies now offer the option to purchase an at-home kit (finger prick blood test) online and have it delivered right to your doorstep:

TM Wellness

Price: $428 (Use promo code Medi5 for extra 5% off)
Website: www.tmwellness.boutir.com
Email: info@tmwellness.com

Atto Health

Price: $680
Website: www.shop.attohealth.org
Email: ask@emchk.com
Phone: +852 6511 8200

Both offer international shipping.

*please note that the result of this test cannot be used as the sole basis for diagnosis and in the case of a positive test, further testing should be carried out in a clinic or hospital. 

Project Screen by Circle

Last month, genetic testing and digital health company Prenetics launched Project Screen by Circle, backed by a group of industry leaders. This is a non-profit initiative aiming to provide safe, rapid and accurate testing for Hong Kong.

This is a DNA test like the swab test done in hospitals, which offers an accuracy rate of 99.9%. The aim is to test up to 3,000 people daily. Furthermore, Prudential is offering a $300 subsidy for healthcare workers and their families.

Price: $985 ($685 for healthcare workers)
Website: www.projectscreen.co

* Note: before ordering, your eligibility for the test will be checked (in accordance with Hong Kong COVID-19 guidelines)

I’ve tested positive for COVID-19. What now?

The doctor will inform the Department of Health. You will then be taken to a hospital to be quarantined and anyone you’ve been in close contact with may be asked to be quarantined in a government facility.

Useful resources in Hong Kong

– Quarantine HK Facebook Support Group

– Information on quarantine for inbound travellers from the government

– COVID-19 Hong Kong Facebook Update and Support Group

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Looking for health insurance? For expert advice, contact AD MediLink now at hello@admedilink.hk or +852 2606 2668 to receive a free quote. An advisor uniquely trained on your options will answer all your questions.

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This article was independently written by AD MediLink and is not sponsored. It is informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and should never be relied upon for specific advice.