Photo Credit: Government of Alberta

By Abby Zieverink

COVID-19

Alberta limits PCR tests for specific groups

Jan 10, 2022 | 4:35 PM

PCR testing for COVID-19 will now only be available for specific groups of people in Alberta.

Chief medical officer of health for the province Dr. Deena Hinshaw says due to the Omicron COVID-19 variant causing an increase in demand for PCR tests, the testing system has been pushed beyond its capacity.

“As many Albertans have found, just booking an appointment for a swab takes several days and the time to get results back is now close to 48 hours after the swab is taken.”

“While we have used widespread PCR testing to manage COVID-19 in previous ways, this approach is just not possible with the Omicron variant,’ she explained.

Hinshaw says eligible groups are now focused on those with clinical risk factors for severe outcomes and those who live with or work in high-risk settings.

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“Some examples include continuing care residents, healthcare staff in acute and continuing care settings, shelters and correctional facilities, symptomatic household members of a person who works in continuing or acute care, individuals with any degree of symptoms that have risk factors that would make them qualify for monoclonal antibody treatment if positive with COVID-19.”

A full list of Albertans eligible for a PCR test can be found on the Alberta website.

Hinshaw added those who are not included in those categories are asked to cancel their PCR test appointments to make sure those vulnerable can get them.

“Please call 811 or go online to cancel your testing appointment, because that slot could be used for a critical, at-risk case, and only by cancelling your appointment can you make room for them.”

This PCR testing qualification change is in alignment with other provinces including Quebec, B.C. and Ontario.

With that, Hinshaw explains anyone who may be showing COVID-19 symptoms such as a cough, fever, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat or loss of smell or taste need to isolate and assume they have COVID.

Also available now, is a printable PDF form to show proof of positive COVID-19 rapid test results.

Hinshaw states this as some employees are still being required to show proof of a positive COVID-19 test.

“Patients can use this form to enter their name, time the test was taken and other useful information that might be needed if they are required to show a positive result.” she said.

However, Hinshaw urges employers and organizations to not require proof of a positive COVID-19 result.

“To support sick leave requests right now. With our test positivity currently at 40 per cent anyone who has COVID symptoms almost certainly has COVID and should just be staying home.”

However, a more formal PDF document can be found here.

Hinshaw explains to print out the form, fill it out and take a picture of it to share with whoever they need.