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Doctor consultation

Prescriptions

Medical certificates

Pathology referrals

Specialist referrals

Weight loss

Mental health

Menopause

UTIs

Skincare

Mental health care plans

COVID PCR test

Get personalised access to a covid pcr test through an Australian-registered doctor, without leaving home. The process is online, confidential and built around your schedule.

Relevant Services:

How our doctors support covid PCR testing

People need a covid PCR test for all sorts of reasons: symptoms that won't shift, close contact with a confirmed case, travel requirements, or clearance before a procedure. During a short telehealth consultation, an Australian-registered doctor will talk through your situation, assess whether covid testing is appropriate, and issue a pathology request so you can get a covid test at a collection centre near you.

What we offer:

Our telehealth consultations cover everything you need around a covid PCR test:

Personalised consultation with an Australian-registered doctor
COVID PCR test request sent to your inbox
Symptom assessment and clinical advice
Review of your PCR results once available
Specialist referrals if further care is needed
Follow-up support and treatment planning
AHPRA-registered doctors experienced in respiratory illness

COVID PCR test online: how it works

1.

Request a telehealth consultation

Head to our telehealth consultations page and request a time that suits you. Our doctors are available from 6am to midnight, every day of the week, so you can fit care around your schedule.

2.

Speak with an Australian-registered doctor

A doctor will call you to talk through your symptoms, recent contacts and medical history. If a PCR test is appropriate, they'll arrange the request during your consultation.

3.

Visit a collection centre

You'll receive your pathology request electronically. Take it to any participating collection centre to have your sample taken, then wait for your results.

1.

Request a telehealth consultation

Head to our telehealth consultations page and request a time that suits you. Our doctors are available from 6am to midnight, every day of the week, so you can fit care around your schedule.

2.

Speak with an Australian-registered doctor

A doctor will call you to talk through your symptoms, recent contacts and medical history. If a PCR test is appropriate, they'll arrange the request during your consultation.

3.

Visit a collection centre

You'll receive your pathology request electronically. Take it to any participating collection centre to have your sample taken, then wait for your results.

COVID testing made simple

Your health information stays private from start to finish, with no waiting room and no need to explain your symptoms to a receptionist. After a short telehealth consultation with a doctor, your pathology request is sent to you digitally. You can then visit a collection centre when it suits your day, whether that's before work, on a lunch break, or after the school run.

What's included:

Doctor consultation, A short, private appointment with an Australian-registered doctor to review your symptoms, exposure history, and whether a PCR test is the right step for you.
Pathology request, A digital pathology request sent straight to your inbox, ready to take to your nearest collection centre.
Results review, Your doctor can talk you through what your results mean and what to do next, in plain English.
Referrals if required, If you need further care, your doctor can arrange a specialist referral on the same day.

What is a COVID PCR test?

A COVID PCR test (polymerase chain reaction test) looks for the genetic material of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. A swab is taken from inside your nose or throat, then sent to a laboratory where the sample is analysed for tiny amounts of viral RNA. According to Healthdirect, the RACGP and health.gov.au, PCR testing is considered the gold-standard method for confirming a COVID-19 infection because it can pick up the virus even when levels are very low.

PCR tests are usually recommended when a rapid antigen test (RAT) result needs to be confirmed, when symptoms are present but a RAT is negative, or when you need a confirmed result for travel, surgery or another medical reason. In most cases, you'll need a doctor's referral to access a PCR test at a pathology collection centre, which is where our online doctor service can help.

Can I get a COVID PCR test referral online?

Yes. You can request a PCR test referral through InstantScripts without needing to visit a clinic in person. After a short telehealth consultation with one of our Australian-registered doctors, your referral can be sent to you electronically, ready to take to a participating pathology collection centre. This is helpful when you're feeling unwell, isolating, or simply unable to attend a face-to-face appointment.

What's the difference between a PCR test and a RAT?

A rapid antigen test detects proteins on the surface of the virus and gives results in about 15 to 20 minutes at home. A PCR test detects the virus's genetic material in a laboratory and is more sensitive. PCR is generally used to confirm a diagnosis, particularly when a RAT result is unclear or when documented proof of infection is needed.

How much does a COVID PCR test cost?

Consultation fees for requesting a referral through InstantScripts are listed on our pricing page. The cost of the PCR test itself at the pathology centre may be bulk billed under Medicare in certain circumstances. Eligibility depends on your symptoms and clinical need, so please check with the collection centre when you book.

Do I need a Medicare card?

A Medicare card or Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) is generally required to access bulk-billed pathology services. If you don't have one, you may still be able to access PCR testing as a private patient. Our doctors can talk you through the options during your consultation.

How long do PCR results take?

Most laboratories return PCR results within 24 to 72 hours, though it can vary depending on demand. The pathology provider will usually contact you directly with your result.

Can I get a PCR test for travel or before a procedure?

Yes. If you need a PCR test for international travel, hospital admission or a planned procedure, our doctors can issue a referral after assessing your situation. Always check the specific testing window required by your destination, airline or hospital before booking.