COVID-19 TESTS
It is possible to test for both a current and past COVID-19 infection. We offer the following tests:
- At-Home testing – Dutch government approved at-home testing kits for people that are free of symptoms, are now available over the counter in our pharmacy. An at-home test looks for current infection. Please note, that a negative result from an at-home testing kit does not qualify as a NAAT or antigen test required for traveling (e.g. boarding a plane). The test comes with an instruction leaflet in English.
- (rapid) Antigen test – current infection
- PCR test – current infection
- Antibody test – past infection
To book an appointment:
Tests are done on Monday-Thursday from 08:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 15:00. The samples are collected at 15:00 to be taken to the lab, and therefore we are unable to offer later appointments.
If you are not registered with our GP or Polyclinic, you must first fill out the registration form (choose health checks/ travel vaccines only as reason for registration).
Once registered you can arrange an appointment by calling us on +31 (0)70 306 5100 and selecting the Polyclinic option.
Please email ihchpoli@ezorg.nl if you have any questions regarding these tests.
PCR TEST
A current COVID-19 infection is tested via the PCR test, done by a nose-throat swab. IHCH’s travel clinic is pleased to offer the COVID-19 PCR-test.
Please note this test is only intended if you are currently asymptomatic, in other words, you have no symptoms of COVID-19. If you have symptoms, or have been in contact with someone with COVID-19, you need to contact the Dutch municipal health organization (GGD) to get tested.
Some countries require a recent negative PCR test to allow entry, you can find an overview for international travel here. Please check with the country you are traveling to before booking a test. Different countries have different requirements, and it is important that you are aware of these requirements before you book a test with us.
You can expect the results to be back in 2 days time. Keep in mind however, that we are closed on weekends. This means that if you are travelling on a Tuesday and the country you are traveling to requires a result no older than 72 hours, we are unfortunately unable to accommodate your request. The PCR test is done by a third party laboratory and therefore we cannot guarantee that your results will be available within 48hrs. The majority of the time, the results are back within 48hours.
If your country of entry requires that you have your passport number on the certificate, please notify us when you come for the appointment and bring your passport along to the appointment.
Please find an example of the certificate here.
Tests can be arranged by appointment only.
Please email ihchpoli@ezorg.nl if you have any questions regarding this test.
If you are not registered as a patient in our centre, please register with our centre first.
TO BOOK A TEST:
Please call +31 (0)70 306 5100 and select the Polyclinic option
ANTIGEN TEST
An antigen is a substance recognized by the body’s immune system, which can then respond by generating proteins called antibodies that specifically recognize that antigen. The test is collected via a nasal cavity swab.
The main advantage of antigen tests, is the speed at which they can provide results: our antigen test can show results within 20 minutes. The reliability of the test is dependant on the amount of viruses In your airways. The more virus, the more reliable the test (and the more symptoms you will suffer from).
The test is by appointment only. Please be aware that taking this antigen test if you don’t have any symptoms will lead to a 20% chance that the test is negative while you might be infectious.
For example: The test can be used to establish whether it is safe for an employee with upper airways symptoms to attend to work or for travel purposes.
If you are not registered as a patient in our centre, please register with our centre first.
TO BOOK A TEST:
Please call +31 (0)70 306 5100 and select the Polyclinic option
ANTIBODY TEST
Antibody (IgG) testing can determine whether you have previously been infected with COVID-19 if your symptoms started more than 3-4 weeks ago.
If you have long term symptoms that could be related to COVID-19, your GP can refer you to get the venipuncture antibody test. Please speak to your GP if you would like to request the venipuncture antibody test.
If you are not registered as a patient in our centre, please register with our centre first.
TO BOOK A TEST:
Please call +31 (0)70 306 5100 and select the Polyclinic option