Individuals who receive a positive result from a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and need to visit a healthcare facility are reminded to strictly adhere to epidemic prevention measures when in public, Health Minister Chen Shih-chung (???) said Wednesday.

At a press briefing, Chen noted that under a new policy that took effect Wednesday, positive rapid test results from people aged 65 and above are counted as confirmed COVID-19 cases once they are verified during a virtual doctor’s appointment.

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PCR test guidelines

In cases where the patient and doctor are not in agreement on the diagnosis, Chen said, the patient should put the testing device in a sealable bag, and go to the nearest hospital COVID-19 outpatient clinic or community testing center to confirm the result with a PCR test.

Individuals with positive rapid test results can travel to the hospital by driving, riding a motorcycle or walking, or they can be driven by a friend, but they are prohibited from taking public transportation, Chen said, adding that they should also wear a face mask at all times.

Once at the hospital, the patient should follow the hospital’s COVID-19 testing lanes and inform hospital staff when checking in that they already tested positive with a rapid test, Chen said.

During their visit, the patient should avoid conversing with others, not eat or drink other than water, and refrain from visiting any other parts of the hospital, such as the food court, he added.

Positive rapid tests used to confirm infections

Under Taiwan’s current guidelines, positive rapid test results can be counted as confirmed cases for: people following the “3+4” isolation protocol for close contacts of COVID-19 patients, travelers who are in quarantine after arriving in Taiwan, and people aged 65 and above.

For people under the age of 65 and not following the isolation protocol, positive rapid test results must be confirmed with a PCR test.

Source: Focus Taiwan News Channel