As soon as I heard that Switch Health has COVID-19 Self-Test Kits for Travellers I knew I needed to try one and see how easy the process is and how quickly I would receive my results. I’m sharing with you the process for taking the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test at home. I’ve only had one COVID-19 test to date, and that was the evening before my recent Rocky Mountaineer train journey. This Switch Health kit was just as easy!
Switch Health partnered with Air Canada® and is offering a discounted price for Aeroplan members. Even if you don’t have an Aeroplan card, get one. It’s worth it for the discount and the other perks associated with the rewards card, plus you collect points when purchasing these test kits.
This is not the official documentation, it’s my experience taking the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test. For the complete instructions for each test, please follow the instruction manual in your COVID-19 test kit. For the most current travel restrictions and requirements, always check the official government websites.
COVID-19 Self-Test Kits for Travellers
From start to finish my test took an hour. That included reading the instructions, setting up my account, taking the test, and waiting for results. Sure beats waiting in line!
I received the following kits:
1. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kit (2 tests)
- Self-administered test observed via a telehealth experience.
- Results within 15 minutes of uploading result reading for verification.
- Good for entry into the United States and more countries (do your research here).
2. COVID-19 RT-LAMP Test Kit (1 test)
- Self-administered test observed via a telehealth experience.
- Results within 45 minutes of uploading result reading for verification.
- Good for re-entry into Canada,and entry into more countries (do your research here).
Ordering Your Test Kits
Give yourself time before you travel—don’t order these kits last minute. If you’re travelling sooner than 10 days, I’d suggest you go into a clinic to be tested. When you go online to order your COVID-19 Self-Test Kits for Travellers there will be a notice for your delivery date. Mine said 5-7 days and I received my kits in 2 days. It all depends on where you live, and how much stock they have, so yes, give yourself time!
How to Use the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kit
The test I’m using for this post is the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kit. (The RT-LAMP test has slightly different instructions so if you’re doing that test, please read the instruction manual in your box carefully). There are two tests in this box so when you unpack it, each test is marked and if you’re doing only one test, make sure to keep the box for the second test and store it in a safe place. Inside your box is a silicone pack that is NOT part of your testing kit, it’s in the box for freshness… just like when you buy that expensive purse and find the pack in a pocket!
Before you do anything else, check the date you’ll be travelling and what test you’ll need, on Air Canada’s Travel Ready Hub for your destination’s entry requirements.
You will be conducting this test LIVE ONLINE with a health expert, so you need to be prepared ahead of time. Make sure you have at least one hour to dedicate to this test. Reading the test is time-sensitive, as well.
Things you need nearby:
- An internet-connected mobile device with a camera
- Government issued ID (travel passport, driver’s license, or health card)
- Clean tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- A clean, flat area to complete the test. The kit can’t be moved or the results will be void.
Step 1 – Preparing for Your Test
- Open the box and divide items by “Test 1” and “Test 2”, of course sanitize your hands before and after.
- Open the Testing Device package and affix the Test 1 QR code to it. See photo to show exact location. The manual in your box shows you exactly where to attach the QR code.
Step 2 – Create Your ASMO Account
- Scan the QR Code on the inside cover of the box with your phone and you’ll be taken to a website to create your ASMO account. You can also visit portal.switchhealth.ca to create your account. When you create your account, make sure to include any dependents you may have. This will make it easier in the future for testing.
Step 3 – Begin Your Test
- After your account has been created and you’re logged in, you can activate your account. You may be asked to give permission so your phone/browser can access your mic and camera, through the portal. These are perfectly safe to approve.
- You’ll be guided through the steps of your test by a health professional. Easy peasy.
Step 4 – Wait 15–30 Minutes then Upload a Photo of Your Results
- After you complete your test live online with a health professional, set your timer for 15 minutes and don’t touch the testing kit. You’ll also receive a text and email reminder to upload a photo of your results, so do that! Outside of that 15-30 minute window your results may be void.
Step 5 – Download Your Verified Results
- After you upload the photo of your results you’ll receive another email and text when your verified results are ready.
- Download your results and keep it handy on your phone or print it, if you’re able. If you’re on an iPhone, when you download the pdf it typically saves to “Files”, or at least on my phone it does! If you’re unsure, test it beforehand by downloading a pdf from any website to see where it saves.
Here’s a handy infographic I created for a quick overview. You are welcome to share this article and bookmark it for future use. If you didn’t know, I’m a travel agent so feel free to contact me for travel bookings! Safe travels!
