You will need to have either a RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) or a PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test when coming for surgery at Peter Mac.
Choose your test
Decide on what kind of test you wish to undertake at least four days before your surgery.
Test types can be either:
- Self-tested using a RAT (Rapid Antigen Test)
- From a pathology service using a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test available through one of the designated pre-operative asymptomatic testing sites
Get tested
Your choice of test type will determine the timing of your test.
PCR Test
At least three days before your surgery: do a PCR test.
You will then receive a text message from your testing site with your results – keep this.
We will need to see this text message on the day of your surgery.
RAT Test
Two days or fewer before your surgery: do a RAT test.
Please take a photo of your RAT test with your phone. This will also show us the date the test was taken.
We will need to see this photo on the day of your surgery.
If your test results are positive
Contact your Surgical Liaison Nurse by phone – do not come to our building.
We may need to change plans for surgery to support your recovery from the virus.
If your test result is negative
Ideally, isolate within your home until your day of admission.
However, if you do need to go out, please wear a mask and stay away from crowds and groups of people.
Please contact your Surgical Liaison Nurse if any of the following apply to you prior to your surgery:
-
You develop any clinical compatible symptoms with COVID-19, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, loss of smell or taste
If you have been COVID-19 positive (prior to taking this test), contact your Surgical Liaison Nurse. They will be able to determine what testing and/or isolation requirements apply to you.
The day of your surgery
Please ensure you have proof of your result with you on the day of surgery.
We may also ask you to take another COVID-19 test on the day of surgery.
As part of the pre-operative checks, we will:
- Screen you again with the COVID-19 questions
- Ask you to provide proof of your negative COVID-19 result
Contact us about coming for surgery at Peter Mac
If you need to speak to someone about your admission or the COVID-19 testing requirements, contact the Theatre Bookings Team between 8:30am and 4:30pm on (03) 8559 5650, who can direct your enquiry.
More information about coming for surgery at Peter Mac
Please see our Coronavirus information page for more information relating to COVID-19, including: