I suspect I have COVID-19. What next?

Everyone who tests for COVID-19 helps us have a greater understanding of how this virus is spreading in our community. So if you wake up feeling unwell or have any of the symptoms such as fever, a cough, fatigue, sore throat, runny nose or shortness of breath you should get tested. It is also important that you do not go to work and self-isolate if you are feeling unwell, even if your symptoms are only mild.

If you are experiencing severe breathing difficulties or any other severe symptoms, call 000.

Getting tested

To get tested you can contact your General Practitioner (GP) or visit a testing clinic near you. If you do decide to go through your GP, make sure you call the clinic before you visit and tell staff of your symptoms and if you’ve had any contact with a confirmed or probable case.

There are a number of testing clinics including drive through clinics around Australia, you can visit the sites below to help find the one closest to you.

ACT

NSW

NT

QLD

SA

TAS

VIC

WA

You’ll need to bring your Medicare card with you. If you don’t have a Medicare card then you’ll need to bring one form of ID such as your driver’s license or student ID.

You will also need to provide contact details so you can get your results. If you test negative, you’ll receive an SMS text message with your results. If your test is positive, a doctor or someone from the Public Health Unit will contact you and let you know what to do next.

If you are getting tested at a GP practice, ask the staff how you will receive your results.

In most cases the COVID-19 test is free. If you see a GP you may have to pay for your appointment if they don’t offer bulk billing, but the actual test is free.

It is really important that you go straight home and self-isolate while you wait for your results. Don’t go out in public and avoid contact with other people, including members of your own household. 

Numbers you can call for advice 

The Australian government has introduced a  National Coronavirus Helpline which you can call for advice on 1800 020 080.

Medibank members with Hospital cover* can also call our 4/7 Medibank Nurse Phone Service on 1800 644 325.

You can also use the HealthDirect online symptom checker.

COVID-19 Health Assist

We understand that every Medibank member will be impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, whether you’re diagnosed with it or not.

For that reason, we have created COVID-19 Health Assist to support our members with personalised information and health advice and assistance during this time.

*OSHC members should contact the Student Health and Support Line on 1800 887 283.