Getting the PCR Test at OR Thambo International Airport
On a recent International trip to South Africa, I needed a PCR test done before I could return to my original destination. Before flying, I made sure that I knew the entry requirements for each country. Government websites for each country display the requirements. These tend to change frequently. It is important to familiarize yourself with the information, otherwise you can be denied boarding. It is also important to check on the site of the Airline as they also have requirements.
Important information required on the PCR certificate.
The format for each each certificate may vary. What is important is the content. Each PCR certificate comes with a QR code that authorities can scan. This QR code contains important information and proves that the certificate is not fake. Furthermore it must have the following information:
- Name and Surname of the patient
- Passport or National Identity number
- Laboratory details
- Name and Surname of the Doctor
- Signature of the above
- Receive date and Report date. It is very important because most certificates are valid for 72 hours.
- What type of test : RT-PCR or PCR only.
- Results
I knew beforehand the required information and confirmed it with the medical personnel on duty.
PCR test done when in South Africa – where?
I browsed the Internet and found a lot of laboratories in and around the country but most had a 24 hour turnaround. You also needed a referral from a doctor. I knew that I was going to be in transit for almost 72 hours and could not afford to do the test 24 hours before the time.
When I landed at OR Thambo International Airport, I saw a tent where they do vaccinations and PCR tests. They offered two options: 24 hours and 2 hours. The 2 hour test is expensive and they charged R2 200. The reason being that special equipment is needed to get the results in 2 hours.
I then found another laboratory situated at the Intercontinental Holiday at OR Thambo Airport. It was easy to get there. Park at the parking or use the drop-off area and walk over there. The security guard took my temperature, sterilized my hands and I completed the register. The registration are is located inside the Kafue conference room.
PCR testing done at OR Thambo International Airport with NextPath Pathology.
NextPath Patology is the company that provides one of the testing services at OR Thambo International Airport and I made use of their service.
Staff is professional, calming which is most welcome under these stressful circumstances. On occasion they accept walk-ins but they do testing with prior bookings. 25 people per 1 hour slot. I opted for the 2 hour turnaround as it saved me time and I had a fresh test before I started my long journey back home.
I presented my passport, confirmed the type of test and information displayed on the certificate. The entered my information on the system and sent the confirmation via sms and email.
Qualified nurses do the test in a secure office. Within two hours I received the results via sms and email. I went back to the office to get a printed copy of the results which was done free of charge.
Costs of the PCR Test done with NectPath Patology?
The costs vary for each test and I will attach the current prices:
- SWIFT 2 HOUR COVID RT-PCR Test
Results: 2 Hours | R1650
The swift PCR test utilizes technology that is significantly faster and more expensive than that of a standard laboratory based PCR test.
- 12 HOUR COVID RT-PCR TEST
Results: 12 Hours | R1250
- 24 HOUR COVID RT-PCR TEST
Results: 24 Hours | R750
Operating Hours: 5am-10pm
Bookings are required: 011 697 2923
They also do Anti-gen tests. Some Airlines like Emirates have special discounted prices if you book with them. Mention it when booking your test.
How to book a PCR test with NextPath?
I phoned and requested a booking but did not find this a good option. My email never arrived. After contacting NextPath on Facebook, I got a link to make a direct booking. I attach the number but in my opinion it is a waste of money to phone. Go directly to the website and make a booking from there.
https://www.nextpath.co.za/Travellers
