The free PCR tests that aren't free

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TropicalPaul

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Sep 3, 2013
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After the big fanfare in the press that the government would pay for PCR tests for tourists staying in hotels returning to the US, those of us who own hotels have been trying to find out how we get such tests done for free. The ministry of tourism sent us a list of places that we have to send tourists to, but all have a price for tests. The lowest is RD$ 5000 and the prices go up to an eye-watering RD$ 12,500 (US$ 215) for someone who needs a test at the airport. People keep calling to ask how it works, and when you have to explain that it's between US$ 100 and US$ 215 per person just for the test it's seriously putting people off from coming.
 
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Feb 16, 2016
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After the big fanfare in the press that the government would pay for PCR tests for tourists staying in hotels returning to the US, those of us who own hotels have been trying to find out how we get such tests done for free. The ministry of tourism sent us a list of places that we have to send tourists to, but all have a price for tests. The lowest is RD$ 5000 and the prices go up to an eye-watering RD$ 12,500 (US$ 215) for someone who needs a test at the airport. People keep calling to ask how it works, and when you have to explain that it's between US$ 100 and US$ 215 per person just for the test it's seriously putting people off from coming.
Look, you know your business...
It is not possible to contract the service out through a contract with a private lab ❓
But as a single hotel or a small group I understand that you would not have the buying power the DRGOV has.
 

windeguy

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Jul 10, 2004
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With the focus on AI tourism, was it not stated that AI tourists would get free tests at approved AI hotels?

I recall nothing about smaller or non-AI hotels getting free tests.

I have seen news reports that people can get free tests at the airport just before flying, but the timing on that seems risky.
 

william webster

Rest In Peace WW
Jan 16, 2009
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Yes... as I remember too .....

Covid Insurance and free tests at participating hotels.... for AllIncl tourists
Surely the hotels chip in something to be ion the program
 
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SKY

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Apr 11, 2004
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Most, but not all AI's in Punta Cana have free testing on the premises for guests now.
 
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SKY

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I suppose it is the "qualified" AI's that have free tests?
The hotels pay for the tests. Antigen tests that cost about 1800 rd. When the hotel gets $250 a night or more for a room they can well afford a $30 test........
 
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windeguy

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Jul 10, 2004
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The hotels pay for the tests. Antigen tests that cost about 1800 rd. When the hotel gets $250 a night or more for a room they can well afford a $30 test........
That is bit different than "Free".
 

windeguy

Platinum
Jul 10, 2004
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It is FREE for the hotel guest.
I was under the impression that approved AI hotels were getting the test for free. Apparently that is not the case.
My point now is:

If ALL hotels are actually paying for the tests, then there is no favoritism for AI hotels over non AI hotels.

And the original post was all about "FREE" as provided FREE by the government for approved AI Hotels.
So, no hotel owner can complain if they are not free to any hotel.
 

TropicalPaul

Bronze
Sep 3, 2013
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Look, you know your business...
It is not possible to contract the service out through a contract with a private lab ❓
But as a single hotel or a small group I understand that you would not have the buying power the DRGOV has.
Of course we could. And what money would we use to pay for the tests? Hotels are on their knees at the moment. And in addition the minute we get involved in organising tests then if the results are late and someone misses their flight it's our problem.
 

william webster

Rest In Peace WW
Jan 16, 2009
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The comments here all conjecture until we from a Participating hotel....as to free or not
As in - Who pays?

It may well be the Gov't pays..... can't say
I suggested a stipend from the hotels..... just my idea... a possibility.

The CV insurance plan too - not to forget
 

SCristo

So it goes
Aug 10, 2020
21
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Bronx NY
After the big fanfare in the press that the government would pay for PCR tests for tourists staying in hotels returning to the US, those of us who own hotels have been trying to find out how we get such tests done for free. The ministry of tourism sent us a list of places that we have to send tourists to, but all have a price for tests. The lowest is RD$ 5000 and the prices go up to an eye-watering RD$ 12,500 (US$ 215) for someone who needs a test at the airport. People keep calling to ask how it works, and when you have to explain that it's between US$ 100 and US$ 215 per person just for the test it's seriously putting people off from coming.
Paid $60 for PCR in Juan Dolio, same day result.
 
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johne

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Jun 28, 2003
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I paid $60 for the PCR test. Got the results in less that 24 hours by email. Walked to their office which is close by to where I live and asked the girl for a printed copy as well. Real easy. No problems what so ever.
 
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johne

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Jun 28, 2003
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The hotels pay for the tests. Antigen tests that cost about 1800 rd. When the hotel gets $250 a night or more for a room they can well afford a $30 test........
That test is not accepted in the U.S. as I understand it.
 

SKY

Gold
Apr 11, 2004
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That test is not accepted in the U.S. as I understand it.
Wrong. They are.

Which Type of Test Do I Need?


Passengers will need to provide results from an antigen test or PCR (viral antigen or nucleic acid


 
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johne

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Jun 28, 2003
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Wrong. They are.

Which Type of Test Do I Need?


Passengers will need to provide results from an antigen test or PCR (viral antigen or nucleic acid


Thanks thats good to know. I'll do a little further research in the next week or so.
 
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