FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The test is a home test kit via nasal/throat PCR swab, provided with free-post packaging for sending directly back to the laboratory for completion of the testing. Our testing supply and process is completely independent from any government processes, as such the sale of these tests does not limit any capacity for the government or in turn the NHS access to these tests.
COVID-19 PCR Swab
To be be conducted when symptomatic (ideally within 1-5 days from onset of symptoms)
Sample easily taken at home and sent directly back to laboratory in pre-paid packaging
The test is 99.9% accurate
What are the symptoms of COVID-19 coronavirus?
The main symptoms are:
high temperature
A new, continuous cough
Do I need to test myself for COVID-19?
If you are currently experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 coronavirus, or know of recently being in contact with somebody who has, you are able to use the kit to test if you are currently infected.
How does the kit work?
The Covid-19 home collection test kit includes a nasal and throat swab which collect a sample of cells which is sent back to our laboratory for testing. The testing in the lab looks for the RNA of the virus using a technique called RT-PCR. RT-PCR tests work by detecting specific genetic material of the virus (RNA). By detecting viral RNA, the tests can tell whether or not someone has the virus.
When & How will I get my results?
The results will be available on our secure patient portal within 48-72 hours of receipt of your sample by the laboratory. You will receive an email prompting you to log in with your date of birth once the results are available.
Will these Coronavirus tests tell me whether I've previously been infected or if I am immune?
No, these tests will not tell if you have previously been infected or whether you are currently immune, they will only tell you if you are currently infected. Once you have recovered the virus is eliminated and these tests can no longer tell if you've been infected.
Are the Coronavirus tests accurate?
All tests are analysed in a CPA accredited lab using PCR which is approved by Public Health England.
Please note that it is not possible to guarantee that any test kit is 100% accurate and therefore there may be instances where results obtained from the test produces a false positive or negative even when used correctly.
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 much does it cost?
£145
Limitations and clinical interpretation
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 SARS-CoV-2 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.
