What are COVID-19 tests?
There are 2 types of tests you can take for COVID-19: a diagnostic test or an antibody test.
Types of COVID-19 tests
Diagnostic test (swab test)
A diagnostic test reveals if you have an active coronavirus infection. Samples of cells and fluids from the nose or throat are collected via a swab, then processed by a machine that detects the virus’s genetic material.
There are 2 types of diagnostic tests:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which is currently used for pre-departure testing in Singapore
- Antigen rapid test (ART), which detects specific proteins on the surface of the virus
Antibody test
Also known as a serology test, an antibody test reveals if your body has had an immune response to the virus after an infection.
A blood sample is used for the test.
Antibody tests only discover evidence of a previous infection and are therefore not used to diagnose COVID-19.
It is not clear if the presence of antibodies translates to immunity to COVID-19.
Why do you need a COVID-19 test?
It is necessary to go for a COVID-19 test when you:
- Have had recent contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19
- Develop signs and symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing or loss of sense of taste or smell
- Are travelling to another country that requires a pre-departure PCR test before entry
How do you book a COVID-19 PCR test?
If you are taking a pre-departure PCR test for travelling, you must make an appointment.
For all others, you can simply walk-in for a PCR swab test.
PCR swab test for non-travellers
You can get a COVID-19 PCR swab test at selected Parkway Shenton clinics and at our 24-hour A&E department.
To take a COVID-19 PCR swab test, simply walk in during A&E operating hours to see a doctor.
No appointments are available at our A&E department. The PCR swab test is strictly on a walk-in basis only.
Pre-departure PCR test for travellers
If you are travelling from Singapore, you can get a pre-departure PCR test at selected Parkway Shenton clinics or our A&E department.
You must make an appointment to take the test at our hospital. Do ensure that your appointment is within the testing window according to your destination country’s requirements.
If an antibody/serology test is also required as part of your destination country’s requirement (e.g. China), please enquire at the A&E department upon arrival.
When to test:
- You will need to take a test within 48 – 72 hours before your flight.
- Do allocate adequate time to receive test results before departure from Singapore to ensure that you meet the testing window of your destination country.
- Please call us to confirm with your individual flight schedule.
What to bring:
- Identity card if you are a Singapore citizen, permanent resident or long-term pass holder
- Passport
- Booking reference showing your departure flight timing in soft copy
How much does a PCR swab test cost?
Find out the cost of PCR swab tests at Parkway Shenton clinics and find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) about COVID-19 pre-departure PCR tests here.
What can you expect in a COVID-19 test?
A PCR swab test is an accurate diagnostic test for active coronavirus infections.
Estimated duration
The PCR swab test takes approximately 5 minutes.
During the procedure
A healthcare professional will insert a long flexible stick called a swab into your nostrils, and sometimes back of your throat, to collect samples from your nasopharyngeal region.
It is normal to experience some discomfort and pain, but only temporarily.
The swab and samples will then be sent to a lab for processing.
After the procedure
You will receive your COVID-19 test results by email within 24 hours.
The email will contain 3 items:
- A PDF copy of the results memo. Do print the results memo for easy reference during your travel.
- An Accredify HealthCert file. The HealthCert is an internationally recognised digital COVID-19 swab result. You can save the HealthCert file and upload it onto the Accredify website to view your results.
- A unique QR Code linking to your HealthCert file.
Note: If your results are delayed due to any unforeseen circumstance, we will not be held responsible for any missed flights.
