FAQs
What’s the difference between the COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and the COVID-19 Serology (IgM) test?
The COVID-19 PCR swab tests directly detect the presence of the COVID-19 antigen in an individual and detects active COVID-19 infections. This is the globally accepted test standard for COVID-19.
The COVID-19 Serology (IgM) test detects the presence of antibodies to COVID-19 which is a marker of past infection. Individuals who have been infected with COVID-19 more than 10 to 14 days ago will have a positive serology test.
Which test package should I choose if I am travelling to China?
With effect from 3 Jan 2022, pre departure tests required for China-bound travellers depend on the vaccination status/vaccines that travellers have taken, i.e. travellers who have taken/are:
- Inactivated Vaccines (i.e. Sinopharm/Sinovac): you are required to take PCR tests on Day 2 and Day 3 prior to departure
- Mixed Vaccines (i.e. inactivated and non-inactivated vaccines): you are required to take PCR tests on Day 2 and Day 3 prior to departure
- Non-inactivated Vaccines (i.e. Pfizer/Moderna/Other Non-inactivated Vaccines): you are required to take PCR+ Total N Antibodies Serology tests on Day 2, and a PCR test on Day 3 prior to departure
- Unvaccinated: you are required to take PCR + IgM serology tests on Day 2 and PCR test on Day 3 prior to departure
For more details, you may refer to China Embassy's website at http://www.chinaembassy.org.sg/eng/lsfw/202112/t20211230_10477220.htm
I have not purchased an Income’s Travel Insurance, but would like to enjoy the test pricing offered. Can I proceed to purchase the COVID-19 test via Raffles Medical's website?
No, you will not be able to enjoy this test pricing when you make the purchase on Raffles Medical's website. You have to be an Income travel policyholder to be eligible for this exclusive benefit. Please proceed to purchase Income’s Travel Insurance (Single Trip plans only) first, in order to receive the weblink via email for this test pricing.
How can I book my COVID-19 test?
Income will be sending you an email after you successfully purchase an Income Travel Insurance Standard Insurance plan (Single Trip). Using the weblink shared in the email, you can make payment for your selected COVID-19 test.
Thereafter, you will receive a redemption letter via email. Follow the stated instructions to book an appointment.
How do I pay for my COVID-19 test?
You can make payment via credit or debit card on the weblink.
When do I have to complete my COVID-19 test before my departure date from Singapore?
Travellers must complete the pre-requisite COVID-19 tests within a specific testing window before the departure flight.
For leisure or business travellers, please note that travellers are responsible for checking your appointment and testing window is in line with your destination country’s guidelines and requirements. Income & Raffles Medical Group will not be liable for any additional costs incurred should there be any rejection of test results that fall outside the testing window by airlines, embassies and relevant authorities
What documents must I bring on the day of the swab test?
On the day of your appointment, please bring along your redemption letter, identity card or passport, and flight documents.
When will I receive my COVID-19 test result?
Your test results will be available within 24 – 36 hours of the administration of the test. This turnaround time includes public holidays and weekends.
If I take more than one COVID-19 test will I get my results at the same time?
If you take the COVID-19 PCR and the COVID-19 Serology (IgM) test at the same time the results will be shared together.
Will my test memos provided by Raffles Medical Group be accepted by my destination country?
All test memos provided are in accordance to existing guidelines from the Ministry of Health. Individuals may request for a sample of the test memo and check with the respective destination country’s embassy.
I booked my test but am no longer able to make it for the original appointment. How do I reschedule my appointment?
Details of how to reschedule your appointment is available via the confirmation email that is sent to your registered email address.
How can I book the home-based pre-departure PCR test?
Similar to the other clinic-based PCR tests, Income will be sending you an email after you successfully purchase an Income Travel Insurance Standard Insurance plan (Single Trip). Using the weblink shared in the email, you can make payment for your selected COVID-19 test.
In addition, please note that you will need to book the home-based PCR test at least 20-hour in advance.
I paid for a home-based PCR test but was informed that there are no longer slots available. I’m flying off soon and urgently need to complete my PCR test. What should I do?
In the event that you are unable to secure a home-based PCR test slot post-payment, please proceed to Raffles Hospital’s A&E department located at 585 North Bridge Rd, #01-00 Raffles Hospital, Singapore 188770. The refund of the difference in price between the home-based PCR test and clinic-based PCR test, as applicable to Income Travel Insurance customers, will be processed during your visit to Raffles Hospital.
