It is part of Boris Johnson’s plan for Living with Covid, which has also removed the legal requirement to isolate itself after a positive test and other restrictions remain. Following the change in test kit rules, the vast majority of people in the UK will have to pay to have PCR and lateral flow tests. However, some teams will still be eligible for free trials – here is everything you need to know about how it will work.
When do the free Covid tests end?
The government will stop providing universally free Covid-19 tests from Friday, April 1st. Up to that point, both side streams and PCRs (for those eligible to order them) are provided free of charge by the NHS. However, before the deadline, people have been warned not to store side-flow tests so that those who “need them most” can place orders. Anyone attempting to order side-streams from the Government’s website has been asked if they have any symptoms. If you say no, a notification appears stating that most exams are now needed for people at higher risk, but you can still order them if you wish. Government seeks to curb lateral flow testing ahead of schedule (Photo: AFP / Getty Images)
Who will receive free lateral flow tests?
From the beginning of April, you will only be able to receive free lateral flow tests and PCRs if you meet certain criteria. The government confirmed the details of the eligible groups on the night of Tuesday, March 29, two days before the change of rules. Sajid Javid announced that he will continue to provide free screening for:
Patients in hospital who require examination for clinical management or treatment support. People who are eligible for Covid-19 therapies because they are at greater risk of developing serious illness than Covid-19. Individuals in this group will be notified directly and sent side-flow tests for home use if they have symptoms, and will be told how to re-order the tests. People living or working in high-risk indoor environments, for example in some NHS, Social Welfare and Prison facilities (and other Detention Centers) where the infection must be detected quickly to minimize cases.
He added that NHS England would write to people who are eligible for free exams to describe the new procedure. The government is also stockpiling lateral flow kits in the event of a dangerous new variant requiring mass testing to restart. The Minister of Health said: “Thanks to our plan to deal with Covid, we are leading the way in learning to live with the virus. We have made tremendous progress, but we will retain the ability to respond to future threats, including possible variations. “Vaccines remain our best defense and we now offer spring breaks to the elderly, caregivers and the most vulnerable – please protect yourself, your family and your community.” Jenny Harries of the UK Health and Safety Service added: “As we learn to live with Covid, we are focusing on testing people at higher risk for serious outcomes of the virus, while encouraging people to continue to take simple steps to maintain themselves and others safe. “
More about the Covid-19 tests
How much will lateral flow tests cost?
The government has an approved list of lateral flow test and PCR providers that can be found here, along with contact details. If you use one of these approved providers, you will be able to report your result on the government website here. Lateral flow tests are significantly cheaper than PCRs, but even the cost of lateral flows can vary greatly depending on the retailer. Boots sells the devices for 50 2.50 each or £ 12 for a pack of five or £ 17 for a pack of four with the added option of sending results to the UK Health Insurance Service (UKHSA). Elsewhere on the main road, a Healgen side-flow test costs 99 1.99 at Superdrug, which also sells a five-piece package from Flowflex for ,7 9.79. At the leading Covid Randox test provider, a package of three lateral flow tests is available for purchase for £ 15 and a pack of 12 lateral flow tests are sold for, 47.50. At 0 Covid Clear, another publicly traded online retailer, prices for a side-flow test start at 99 14.99 and a single PCR test will return 69 69 to customers. You do not need to use an approved provider, but if you do not, you will not be able to post your result. The government says that tests not included in the approved list may also not meet the minimum standards. You can order tests online or pick them up at a local drugstore, including chains such as Boots and Superdrug.
