Re: Forthcoming changes to the distribution of RATs
Over many months, a network of providers and distributors have provided RATs to the public to enable people to self-test for COVID-19. This has been important mahi and we want to acknowledge the ongoing dedication of all the health workers and providers involved who have helped protect our communities.
A system supporting the provision of RATs has been RAT Requestor, an online tool giving access to free RATs for New Zealanders. Using this, New Zealanders have been able to pre-order and pick up publiclyfunded/free RATs from a network of collection sites, testing centres, general practices and pharmacies.
Initially RATs were only available to those meeting eligibility criteria (those who were symptomatic and the household members of a case) but eligibility criteria were removed in July 2022 as part of the Winter Wellness package - all New Zealanders can access publicly-funded/free RATs.
We have good stock levels of publicly-funded/free RATs, and all New Zealanders can source these from the distribution network, detailed on the Healthpoint website and on Te Whatu Ora’s local health websites – Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, without pre-ordering.
As a result, the decision has been made to close RAT Requestor from 30 June 2023, as it is no longer needed. From 1 July 2023, RATs will no longer be able to be pre-ordered via RAT Requestor.
We will continue to focus on supporting priority and vulnerable groups most at risk and disproportionately affected by COVID-19, including Māori and Pacific people, older people, those who are immunocompromised and those with other high-risk medical conditions. This includes ensuring access to testing, including via the RATs distribution networks across Māori and Pacific NGOs.
The 0800 222 478 phoneline will continue to operate and be focussed on providing additional support to these priority and vulnerable groups, with information and assistance to source RATs, including delivery if necessary.
The primary source of information to the public about where to collect publicly-funded/free RATs is Healthpoint Another source is Unite against COVID-19 (covid19.govt.nz) where information on how to use RATs and how to manage risk and exposure to COVID-19 can also be found.
Telehealth services such as Healthline (0800 358 5453) and the Disability Helpline (0800 11 12 13 or text 8988) will continue to provide general health information and advice on where to source RATs.
Ngā mihi nuiCOVID-19 Care in the Community
īmēra: COVIDcareinthecommunity@health.govt.nz
133 Molesworth Street, Thorndon, Wellington 6011
Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand
TeWhatuOra.govt.nz
Statement of confidentiality: This e-mail message and any accompanying attachments may contain information that is IN-CONFIDENCE and subject to legal privilege.
If you are not the intended recipient, do not read, use, disseminate, distribute or copy this message or attachments. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this message.