Why Wealthy Footballers Have Superior Coronavirus Testing and the General Public Face Challenges
As the world continues to grapple with the Coronavirus, disparities in access to testing are becoming increasingly apparent. In Canada, a stark divide can be observed between athletes and the general public, with wealthy footballers enjoying near-daily tests, while the general public faces stringent waiting periods.
Free vs. Out-of-Pocket Testing
In Canada, sports people are required to pay for their testing services out of pocket, while the general public does not incur any fees. However, waiting for tests can be frustratingly long. Despite the efforts to ramp up testing over the past two to three months, the results of these tests are largely meaningless if people do not follow the guidelines set by healthcare professionals.
Athletes and Symptomatic Individuals
Some celebrities and athletes have had to fight for access to tests due to suspected symptoms. However, wealthy individuals like Heidi Klum and Alyssa Milano have been able to obtain tests at their own expense. Most of them use a private practice called Lifespan.
The NFL and Private Testing
The NFL has taken a proactive approach by collaborating with Yale University to develop a new Emergency Use Authorization test. This innovative test does not compete with public testing resources, ensuring that both the league and the community can remain safe.
Justification for Superior Testing
The frequent testing of footballers can be justified by the popularity of the sport and the benefits it brings to mental health. Regular testing is crucial to protect players and prevent the spread of the virus within and outside the team. However, some argue that if footballers wish to continue playing, they should opt for a quarantine environment that eliminates the need for such frequent testing.
Public Testing Challenges
While well-off athletes and celebrities enjoy the luxury of private testing, the general population faces significant hurdles. In Sydney, Australia, health authorities encourage frequent testing for even minor symptoms to prevent the spread of the virus. However, this approach is not practical in densely symptomatic areas, as testing resources are often strained.
The Discomfort of Testing
It is worth noting that while frequent testing is crucial for athletes, the process itself is not comfortable. When tests are performed properly, they can be quite unpleasant. Frequent testing for footballers, therefore, means enduring these uncomfortable experiences on a regular basis.
Conclusion
The divide in Coronavirus testing highlights the inequalities in healthcare access. While wealthy individuals enjoy the security of private testing, the general public must navigate long wait times and limited resources. Both private and public testing efforts are crucial to controlling the spread of the virus, but they must be managed and supported effectively to ensure public health and safety.