Antigen Testing For Hawaii: Travel Requirements And Recommendations

is rapid antigen test good for hawaii travel

Hawaii has implemented a set of COVID-19 testing requirements for travellers to the islands. The state has partnered with several rapid COVID-19 testing options, including CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, and Vault Health. However, it is important to note that only certain tests are accepted for travel to Hawaii, and antigen tests are not considered acceptable. Travellers must provide negative COVID-19 results from a test taken no earlier than 72 hours before their flight departure time. Failure to provide negative test results from an approved partner will result in a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival.

Characteristics Values
Test Type Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT)
Test Timing Taken no earlier than 72 hours before flight departure time
Test Providers CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, Vault Health, Discovery Health MD, CityHealth Urgent Care, Color, GoHealth, AFC Urgent Care, Carbon Health, Worksite Labs
Test Cost Free with insurance (CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente), $119+ (Quest Diagnostics), reimbursable by insurance (Vault Health), $80 (Color), $250 (GoHealth), $200 (AFC Urgent Care), $135 (Carbon Health), $90 for 36-hour results/$150 for day-of-travel results (Worksite Labs)
Test Results Uploaded to Hawaii Safe Travels app and shown to state authorities upon landing
Quarantine Required for those who did not take a test, took a test within 72 hours but did not receive results by departure time, or tested positive

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Antigen tests are not accepted for travel to Hawaii

If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, it's important to understand the state's requirements for pre-travel COVID-19 testing. While rapid antigen tests are widely available and convenient, they are not accepted for travel to Hawaii. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Hawaii's Testing Requirements: Hawaii has implemented a pre-travel testing program called "Safe Travels," which allows travelers to bypass the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival. To participate in this program, travelers must provide negative results from a COVID-19 test taken no earlier than 72 hours before their flight's departure time. However, Hawaii only accepts specific types of tests, and antigen tests are not on the approved list.
  • Accepted Tests: The state of Hawaii only accepts Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT) processed by specially certified laboratories. These tests are considered more accurate and reliable than antigen tests. Additionally, Hawaii only accepts test results from trusted testing and travel partners, including specific airlines, laboratories, and pharmacies.
  • Quarantine Requirements: If you arrive in Hawaii without a negative test result from an approved partner, you will be subject to the 14-day quarantine. This mandate applies regardless of your vaccination status or previous infection history. Failing to comply with the quarantine rules can result in fines and other penalties.
  • Planning and Preparation: It is essential to plan ahead and schedule your COVID-19 test with an approved provider well in advance of your trip. This ensures that you receive your results within the required timeframe. Additionally, creating a Safe Travels account and uploading your negative test results before your flight is a crucial step in the process.
  • Stay Informed: Hawaii's travel requirements can change, and it's your responsibility to stay updated. The state's guidelines may evolve based on the current pandemic situation and new scientific insights. Regularly check the Hawaii COVID-19 website (HawaiiCovid19.com) and the Safe Travels program website for the latest information.
  • Alternative Testing Options: When choosing a COVID-19 test for travel to Hawaii, opt for a molecular test or a NAAT test from an approved partner. CVS and Walgreens, for example, offer rapid NAAT tests that are accepted by the state. These tests provide quick results and are more suitable for travel to Hawaii than antigen tests.

In summary, while rapid antigen tests have their advantages, they are not accepted for travel to Hawaii. To ensure a smooth entry into the state and avoid unexpected quarantines, it is crucial to follow Hawaii's testing guidelines and choose the right type of test from an approved provider. Always refer to official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

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Only certain tests are accepted by Hawaii

When travelling to Hawaii, it's important to ensure that you have the correct COVID-19 test, as only certain tests are accepted by the state. The specific tests and test providers that are accepted can change, so it's crucial to check the latest information before your trip. As of November 2020, Hawaii only accepted test results from trusted testing and travel partners.

Hawaii requires a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than 72 hours before your flight's departure time. If you take the test within this 72-hour window but don't receive the results by the time of departure, you will need to quarantine for two weeks or the duration of your trip.

The state of Hawaii has partnered with several rapid COVID-19 testing options, including CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, and Vault Health. However, it's important to note that not all tests from these providers may be accepted. For example, while CVS offers rapid tests, these are antigen tests, which are not acceptable for travel to Hawaii.

To ensure your test is accepted, it's essential to check that it is on the list of approved tests and providers on the day of your arrival. The type of test is also critical. Hawaii requires nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) processed by specially certified laboratories. Antigen tests are not accepted.

It's also worth noting that Hawaii has a Safe Travels program, where travellers need to create an account and upload their negative test results and a health questionnaire. A QR code registered to this account must be presented upon arrival in Hawaii.

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Pre-travel testing options to avoid a 14-day quarantine

As of October 15, 2020, Hawaii offers a pre-travel testing option for travellers from the mainland to avoid a 14-day quarantine. Travellers must provide a negative COVID-19 test result from a test taken no earlier than 72 hours before their flight departure time. If a traveller takes the test within the 72-hour period but does not receive the results by the departure time, they will be required to quarantine for two weeks or their entire trip duration.

The state has partnered with several rapid COVID-19 testing options, including CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, and Vault Health. However, it is important to note that only test results from trusted testing and travel partners will be accepted. As of November 20, 2020, travellers without a negative COVID-19 test result from an approved partner will not be allowed to bypass the 14-day quarantine.

To travel to Hawaii without a 14-day quarantine, follow these steps:

Step 1: Schedule a COVID-19 test through an approved provider. The test must be processed by laboratories licensed or certified by the Clinical Laboratories Improvement Amendments (CLIA) for nucleic acid amplification testing approved or authorized by the FDA.

Step 2: Take the test and receive your results. It is recommended to quarantine at home until your flight for test accuracy.

Step 3: Create a Safe Travels account 24 hours before your flight. Upload your negative test results and fill out a short health questionnaire. You will need to share a QR code registered to your Safe Travels account upon arrival in Hawaii.

Step 4: Follow the state guidelines and enjoy your trip! Remember to social distance and wear a mask when outdoors.

It is important to note that Hawaii has specific requirements for COVID-19 tests, and not all tests may be accepted. Always check the latest information on the official Hawaii travel website before your trip.

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The importance of checking the test type, not just the provider

When planning a trip to Hawaii, it is crucial to understand the importance of checking the type of test required for travel, not just the provider. While rapid tests are available at various locations, including CVS and Walgreens, it is essential to verify that the specific test meets the requirements for entry to Hawaii.

Hawaii has implemented a pre-travel testing program called "Safe Travels," which allows travelers to bypass the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival by presenting negative results from a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure. However, it is important to note that not all tests are accepted. The state only accepts nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) processed by specially certified laboratories and results from trusted testing and travel partners. Failure to provide an accepted test result will result in a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

When considering a rapid test, it is essential to distinguish between antigen tests and NAAT tests. Antigen tests are not accepted for travel to Hawaii. On the other hand, NAAT tests, such as Rapid NAAT Covid tests offered by Walgreens, are suitable and highly recommended due to their faster results compared to standard PCR tests. Therefore, travelers should prioritize NAAT tests over antigen tests to ensure compliance with Hawaii's entry requirements.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the list of trusted testing partners can change, and Hawaii's testing procedure has been described as convoluted. Thus, it is crucial to stay updated and check the official websites and guidelines regularly. Cross-referencing information from multiple sources, including the testing providers and Hawaii's travel website, can help ensure that you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In conclusion, when planning travel to Hawaii, it is vital to go beyond simply choosing a testing provider and ensure that the specific type of test administered meets the state's requirements. By understanding the difference between antigen and NAAT tests and staying informed about the trusted testing partners, travelers can avoid unexpected hurdles and enjoy a smooth journey to Hawaii.

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The consequences of arriving in Hawaii without the correct test

Hawaii has specific requirements for travellers entering the state, and failure to comply with these rules can have consequences. Here are some of the potential consequences of arriving in Hawaii without the correct test:

Quarantine

If you do not have a valid negative COVID-19 test result from a trusted testing partner, you may be required to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. This is a standard protocol to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of the local community.

Loss of Vacation Time and Expenses

Travellers who are required to quarantine will lose valuable vacation time and may incur additional expenses. For example, the Garretsons, a couple from Goode, had to spend an extra day in Los Angeles and incurred over $1,200 in expenses to get rapid tests before they could continue their trip to Hawaii.

Delays and Disruptions

Arriving without the correct test can cause delays and disruptions to your travel plans. You may need to spend time finding a testing facility, waiting for test results, and potentially rearranging your itinerary. These delays can impact your vacation plans and cause inconvenience and frustration.

Financial Losses for the Local Economy

Hawaii's economy heavily relies on tourism, and strict testing requirements are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and maintain a safe environment for travellers and locals alike. However, if travellers consistently fail to comply with the testing requirements, it could lead to a decrease in tourism and have negative financial consequences for the local economy.

Difficulty Obtaining Reimbursement

In some cases, travellers who have been required to obtain additional testing or quarantine due to incorrect testing may face challenges in obtaining reimbursement for their expenses. The Garretsons, for example, did not receive a response to their inquiries about the reimbursement policy from the Safe Travels program.

It is important to note that the consequences of arriving in Hawaii without the correct test may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the local authorities. It is always best to carefully review and comply with the latest travel requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Hawaii.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you must take a negative COVID-19 test no earlier than 72 hours before your flight departure time. If you take the test within the 72-hour period but do not receive the results by the departure time, you will be required to quarantine for two weeks or the duration of your trip.

You need to take a Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) processed by specially certified laboratories. Antigen tests are not accepted.

The state of Hawaii has partnered with the following testing options: CVS Health, Walgreens, Kaiser Permanente, Quest Diagnostics, Vault Health, Discovery Health MD, CityHealth Urgent Care, Color, United Airlines, AFC Urgent Care, Carbon Health, Worksite Labs, and Clinical Labs.

If you don't have a negative COVID-19 test result from an approved partner before your departure flight, you will be required to quarantine for 14 days or the duration of your stay.

If you test positive, you will be required to immediately take a PCR test and quarantine in your hotel room or vacation lodging.

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