Around 5.6 million vulnerable Australians received free RAT tests under the scheme the Albanese government is wrapping up, but those providing the tests are urging the government to reconsider.
Doctors and pharmacists are urging the federal government not to end a scheme providing free rapid antigen tests to vulnerable groups as Australians are warned to brace for rising COVID cases through winter.Under the scheme concession card holders could access up to 10 free RATs over three monthsMore than 58 million test have been handed out under the program
Under the scheme, concession card holders including those with a Pensioner Concession Card, Low Income Health Care Card, and Seniors Card, have been able to access up to 10 free rapid tests over three months from participating community pharmacies. "If we cease to provide this program vulnerable people who would otherwise have been able to access free rapid antigen tests will no longer be able to do so," President Dr Fei Sim said.The Omicron wave of January this year saw a severe shortage of RAT tests, which drove prices higher and led to investigations into price gouging.
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