A woman living with a chronic autoimmune disorder has described finding rapid antigen tests as an "impossible" feat and is in a self-induced lockdown to protect herself from the virus.
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Monica Bailey, who lives with rheumatoid arthritis in the NSW Shoalhaven region, was disappointed the government "didn't have the foresight to plan and have enough stock" of the self-tests which would provide her, and others living with illness, more certainty to leave the house.
"We do not go anywhere. It's just too risky," said Monica.
"A lot of people don't realise that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, which doesn't just affect your joints.
"I've had pericarditis inflammation around my heart four times now. And I know that that is one of the risks with COVID as well.
"I also have elderly parents. I wouldn't feel comfortable going to visit them unless I could test myself first to make sure I'm safe going into their home and not putting them in danger."
Monica was also frustrated the self-tests haven't been made free for everyone.
"I don't want handouts, but I do expect my government to help people like me," said Monica.
"It makes me angry because there are so many people that aren't necessarily concession card holders that do fall through the cracks.
"It's almost like we're an invisible subset."
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Two weeks ago, Prime Minister Scott Morrison granted free access to a maximum of 10 RATs for those with a concession card.
Monica said the government should consider other ways to ensure immunocompromised people also have access to free tests.
"They should be free for all," she said. "But if they can't be, then at least the government should expand how they're looking at vulnerable groups.
"People that do have chronic illnesses are usually under a care plan with their GP, my husband is listed with Centrelink as my carer.
"So there are other ways to find out who the vulnerable members of our community are."
Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips said her office has been inundated with calls from residents in need of RATs who do not qualify as concession card holders and urged the prime minister to make them freely available for all.