COVID-19 Test by an accredited private laboratory - FAQ

Who is the test for?

Clients who wish to get tested but do not meet the Government’s criteria for free tests and for those who wish to apply for travel restriction exemption (notes to application for travel restriction exemption).

What kind of test is available?

RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 virus (the COVID-19 virus). A sample container will be provided to the client, and a deep throat saliva sample should be taken by the patient at home first thing in the morning. The specimen will then be sent to a medical laboratory within 6 hours of collection for analysis.

How much does the test cost?

For Standard Test, the cost is $900 per sample, which includes a teleconsultation with a doctor. For Express Test (test results available within 24 hours), the cost is $1,200 per sample. Client have to collect the specimen collection kit from Virtus Medical Tower* and deliver to PathLab Medical Laboratories Ltd**.(Express Test need to delivered before 10a.m.). Delivery of the specimen collection kit to your home, and the delivery of the specimen from your home to the laboratory, there will be an extra cost of $400.
*Virtus Medical Tower address: 17/F, 122 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
**PathLab Medical Laboratories Ltd. address: 28/F, Lee & Man Commercial Centre, 169 Electric Road, Fortress Hill, Hong Kong (Fortress Hill MTR Station Exit A)

How long does it take to get results back?

It typically takes 2 working days (subject to capacity).

How do I prepare for a sample collection?

Specimen should be collected first thing in the morning – after getting up and before brushing teeth, eating or drinking.
Specimen must be sent to Lab within 6 hours of collection and since Lab is closed on Saturdays (after 1pm), Sundays and Public Holidays, please avoid collecting specimen during those days.
For collection instructions, please refer to below link (prepared by Hospital Authority): https://www.ha.org.hk/haho/ho/cc/Information_sheet_en_txt.pdf

How will I learn the results?

Doctor will communicate results with you over the phone. And a report will be mailed to you together with a laboratory certifying letter (if applicable/testing for travel restriction exemption).
For cases with reportable test results, Virtus will report the cases to the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) according to the CHP’s instruction and patients will be transferred to the designated hospitals under the Hospital Authority for further clinical management.