Who qualifies for the LFD test under this service?
Eligibility is based on NHS and NICE guidelines. You may qualify if you are in a high-risk group for severe COVID-19, such as individuals over 85, residents in care homes with specific health conditions, or individuals on the organ transplant waiting list. A full list of eligibility criteria is available, and our team can help confirm if you meet the requirements.
How do I confirm my eligibility for the LFD test?
Eligibility can be confirmed through:
Can someone else, like a family member or caregiver, complete the application for me?
Yes, a representative such as a family member, caregiver, or other authorised person can complete the application on your behalf. They will need to confirm they have your consent and complete the form with the required information.
I’m the patient’s representative. Do I need to meet any requirements to complete the application?
As a representative, you should have the patient’s consent to provide their medical information and access necessary records for eligibility confirmation. If you are also in a high-risk category and applying for yourself, you can indicate this on the form.
How do I know if my medical history qualifies me for an LFD test?
If you have certain chronic conditions or are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 complications, you may qualify. These conditions include diabetes, heart failure, chronic respiratory disease, severe immunosuppression, and specific high-risk criteria outlined by the NHS. If you’re unsure, a pharmacist or healthcare provider can help assess your eligibility.
Can eligibility be confirmed through the National Care Records Service or Summary Care Record?
If you have certain chronic conditions or are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 complications, you may qualify. These conditions include diabetes, heart failure, chronic respiratory disease, severe immunosuppression, and specific high-risk criteria outlined by the NHS. If you’re unsure, a pharmacist or healthcare provider can help assess your eligibility.
What should I do if I’m unsure about the eligibility requirements?
If you’re uncertain, you can contact us directly or speak with a pharmacist who can help determine eligibility based on the latest guidelines. You can reach our support team at 0800 999 4888.
What happens if the patient’s condition changes after they qualify?
If the patient’s health status changes, it’s important to review eligibility. Conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 may make someone eligible, so reach out to us or consult a healthcare professional to reassess if necessary.
How will I be notified of my eligibility?
Once your eligibility is confirmed through the provided information or an assessment, we will contact you through your preferred method (phone or email) to provide further instructions on accessing LFD testing.
Is there a charge for this service, or is it covered by the NHS?
The LFD testing service is provided as part of the NHS’s COVID-19 treatment programme for eligible patients. There is no charge for eligible individuals who meet the high-risk criteria specified by the NHS and NICE.
How many LFD test kits can I receive at one time?
Eligible patients can receive one box containing five LFD tests per consultation. This ensures that tests are available for all who need them and that you have enough tests on hand if you develop symptoms in the future.
How often can I request LFD test kits?
You can request additional LFD test kits as needed. However, the pharmacy will monitor the frequency to ensure supplies are provided at appropriate intervals and that requests align with what is reasonably required for your needs.
Do I need to have COVID-19 symptoms to collect the LFD test kits?
No, you do not need to have symptoms to collect the LFD test kits. In fact, it’s recommended that eligible patients obtain a box of tests in advance, so they are prepared to test immediately if symptoms develop.
Can I collect LFD test kits on behalf of someone else?
Yes, you can collect LFD test kits on behalf of an eligible patient as their representative. You will need to provide your details and confirm your relationship to the patient on the application form, along with the necessary information to verify the patient’s eligibility.
What should I do if I test positive on an LFD test?
If you test positive, contact your general practitioner (GP), call NHS 111, or reach out to your hospital specialist as soon as possible. Prompt action is important because COVID-19 treatments are most effective when started early after symptom onset.
What if I test negative but still have COVID-19 symptoms?
If you test negative but continue to have symptoms, you should take a total of three LFD tests over three consecutive days. If any test is positive, stop testing and contact your GP, NHS 111, or hospital specialist immediately.
Can I get LFD test kits from any pharmacy?
LFD test kits under this NHS service are available from participating community pharmacies. You can check with your local pharmacy to see if they offer the NHS LFD test supply service.
Do I need to pay for the LFD test kits?
No, eligible patients receive LFD test kits free of charge under this NHS service, as part of the COVID-19 treatment program for high-risk individuals.
What information do I need to provide when collecting the LFD test kits?
You will need to provide the patient’s NHS number (if available), full name, date of birth, and address. If you’re collecting on behalf of someone else, your name and address will also be required, along with your relationship to the patient.
How is my personal information used and protected?
Personal information is used to confirm eligibility and to keep records of LFD test kit supplies. This information may be shared with NHS England and the NHS Business Services Authority for monitoring and payment purposes, in compliance with data protection regulations. All data is handled confidentially and securely.
Can I obtain multiple boxes of LFD tests if I have multiple eligible family members?
Yes, you can collect one box of LFD tests for each eligible family member. You will need to provide the necessary eligibility information for each individual.
What should I do if the pharmacy doesn't have LFD test kits in stock?
If a pharmacy is temporarily out of stock, they should assist you by directing you to another nearby participating pharmacy that has test kits available. Alternatively, you can contact us at 0800 999 4888 for assistance.
Are the LFD tests provided under this service different from those I can buy over the counter?
The LFD tests provided under this NHS service meet specific regulatory standards and are approved for use in confirming eligibility for COVID-19 treatments. While over-the-counter tests may be available, using the NHS-provided tests ensures compatibility with treatment pathways.
How do I perform the LFD test correctly?
Each LFD test kit includes detailed instructions on how to perform the test. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully. If you have questions, you can ask the pharmacist for guidance when you collect the tests or refer to instructional resources provided by the NHS.
Can children receive LFD test kits under this service?
Eligibility is based on specific high-risk criteria rather than age alone. If a child meets the eligibility criteria due to a health condition or other factors outlined in the guidelines, they may receive LFD test kits. Consult with a healthcare professional to confirm eligibility.
What COVID-19 treatments are available if I test positive?
If you test positive and are eligible, treatments such as antiviral medications or monoclonal antibodies may be offered based on current NHS protocols and clinical assessment. Your healthcare provider will discuss the most appropriate options with you.
How quickly should I start treatment after testing positive?
It’s important to seek medical advice as soon as possible after a positive test result. COVID-19 treatments are most effective when started within five days of symptom onset.
Can I continue to use leftover LFD tests from previous supplies?
You should check the expiration date on any LFD test kits you have. Only use tests that are within their valid date range to ensure accurate results.
What precautions should I take if I test positive?
Follow current public health guidance, which may include self-isolating to prevent spreading the virus to others, wearing a mask, and practicing good hygiene. Contact your healthcare provider for specific advice.
Do I need to report my test results to the NHS or any authority?
While there’s no requirement to report your LFD test results under this service, informing your healthcare provider of a positive result is essential to access COVID-19 treatments promptly.