Covid-19 Test Information
Covid-19 PCR Swab Test
Both PCR Swab tests we offer are currently used by The NHS, fully compliant with current government guidelines and approved by MHRA. The PCR Swabs are combined throat and nasal swabs. They can be conducted by yourself at home or in clinic with an IGP Nurse or Doctor.
Home Covid-19 PCR Swab Test kits
Include full instructions on how to administer the test.
Pre-paid 24hr Royal Mail postage envelope for returning the completed sample back to the laboratory.
All kits now posted with next day courier delivery (£7.50). Orders made before 2pm posted out same day.
Results provided via email link to our secure patient portal where they are available to print, download or share.
In Clinic Covid-19 PCR Swab Test
Undertaken by a trained IGP Nurse or GP from our clinic in Cardiff.
Couriered same day to the laboratory for efficiency of reporting.
Results provided via email link to our secure patient portal where they are available to print, download or share.
Suitable for Fit to Fly.
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Covid-19 Antibody Test
IGP uses the Siemens Total Assay. The test which is run on laboratory analyzers, detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 (including IgG and IgM). The test reports 100% sensitivity and 99.8% specificity.
In the most recent Public Health England evaluation of commercially available Anitbody tests, the Siemens Total Assay was the only test to achieve the MRHA Target Product Profile (TPP) in both sensitivity and specificity.
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In Clinic Covid-19 Antibody Test
Undertaken by a trained IGP Nurse or GP in Cardiff.
Couriered same day to the laboratory for efficiency of reporting.
Results provided via email link to our secure patient portal where they are available to print, download or share.
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Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Test
The IGP uses the PHE approved Roche SD BioSensor Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Test. This test reports 96.52% sensitivity and 99.68% specificity.
Manufacturer: Roche SD BioSensor
Test Type: Rapid Antigen
PHE Approved: Yes
Test type: Nasal Swab
Sensitivity: 96.52%
Specificity: 99.68%
Appointment time: 15 mins
Results time for patient: 15 - 30 mins
Any patient that tests positive with a Rapid Antigen test with The IGP will be sent a FREE home PCR swab test to confirm the result, in line with current best practice and guidance.
How does it work?
The Roche SD BioSensor Rapid Antigen test is undertaken using a simple nose (nasopharynx) swab. From this swab the test detects specific proteins (antigens) on the surface of the COVID-19 virus.
When and how will I receive my results?
After you test, your results will be emailed to you within 15-30 minutes. You will receive an email from our secure patient portal asking you to use you date of birth to log in. You will be able to download, share or print your results as you wish.
Is this Antigen test suitable for my upcoming flight?
At present most countries and flight carriers require a negative PCR test. However, this is a rapidly changing field as the Antigen tests are improving. Please if flying always check the details of your flight requirements carefully.
What if I test positive?
Should you receive a positive result, then you should immediately take steps outlined by current NHS guidance to isolate, as you will be infectious to others. We will send you in the post a PCR swab home test with pre-paid packaging to post directly to the lab. This is in line with current guidance and best practice and will clinically confirm your test result. It is extremely important that anybody that tests positive via a rapid test also carries out a PCR swab test.
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Covid-19 Testing for Businesses
We have been working closely with many of our business partners during the pandemic to provide fast, reliable and secure testing services and guidance. If your business is looking for assistance with reducing absenteeism and time away from work or ensuring the safety of employees and customers, please contact our Business Development Manager.
Covid-19 FAQ’s
Why choose The IGP?
The IGP is a HIW registered Medical Practice established in 2004. All our Covid-19 tests, protocols and guidelines have been developed in collaboration with Dr Sharon Marlowe (Infectious Disease Consultant). In addition we have a team of experienced General Practitioners and Clinicians available to interpret and advise on the results of our testing.
When should I use a PCR swab test?
To test for active infection, a PCR swab test should be carried out ideally within 1–5 days from onset of symptoms.
Can I use a PCR swab test if I am not symptomatic ie if I am flying out of the country?
Yes you can. You do not need to be symptomatic to carry out a PCR Swab test. From our experience, testing for flights require completion within strict timescales. We therefore recommend these tests are carried out in clinic, so our dedicated couriers can be used to deliver the samples to the laboratory as efficiently as possible.
Can I get tested in Clinic if I am symptomatic?
No, if you have any Covid-19 symptoms or suspect you may have Covid-19 you will not be permitted to enter any of our Clinics. Strict attendance protocols apply at all our locations. If you suspect you may have Covid-19 and would like to be tested we recommend using our Home PCR swab test kit.
Are their limitations to PCR Swab testing?
It is always extremely important to be clear on the limitations of any testing carried out. As with all
viral PCR assays, patients with very low viral loads are less likely to be detected. Negative results do not preclude infection with the Covid-19 virus and should not be the sole basis of a patient
treatment/management. If there is a strong clinical suspicion of an early Covid-19 infection a further test should be considered 24-48 hours later. Results should always be interpreted by a trained professional in conjunction with the patient’s history and clinical signs and symptoms, and
epidemiological risk factors.
What If I Test Positive?
You must immediately self-isolate to prevent spreading the virus to others. You should then Contact the NHS on 111 who will advise you on the next steps to take.
How is the Antibody test administered?
The Antibody test is carried out from a venous (blood from arm) sample and sent same day to our laboratory by courier.
When should an Antibody test be carried out?
Testing should be undertaken 14 days or more following exposure or onset of symptoms.
How will I receive my results?
Results are electronically received from the laboratory into our clinical system the moment they are processed. Your results will then be shared with you via our secure patient portal. You will receive an email prompting you to log in using your date of birth. The results will also include guidance about the outcome of your test and can be downloaded, printed or shared. If you test positive and require further advice you are able free to contact one of our highly trained clinicians to discuss your results.
