Amended Instructions from NHS

[azaelea]

Strangely, after Andy T’s post yesterday, I received an Email last night from NHS with updated instructions which answer my question about whether PCR tests are needed as well as LFT’s if we develop Covid symptoms. I have also received a box of LFT in the post this morning . The Email mentions that we will receive these by 12 th April. We do not have to do PCR tests before being assessed for anti viral treatment, just LFT after which when we register the result, they will contact us, according to the letter. Has anyone else been contacted yet? Fran

[amhann]

Hello azalea - yes I’ve had an email too so at least that’s made things clearer. x

[JediReject]

Hi Fran , , yeah same for lil ol me too , , I noted that only nhs supplied tests would be recognised in 'the system' , not privately obtained / supplied ones. And should one need more than the initial box of 7 there's an order site. I might start under cutting Boots (other suppliers are available ) . It's reassuring in a way to know we're on the radar somewhere. Incidently I've almost used a box this last week because copped for what appears to be a really heavy cold with all LFTs negative. Would I have gone out and bought ? Probably not.

Hope you don't need them - Chris

[HazeBlue]

Yes I got the same.

[MWxxxx]

No. I have not heard anything but then I never got the emergency PCR test despite Haematology and my GP stating that I was eligible and my medical records were correct and up to date. I've noticed that the NHS website has been updated though, allowing you to continue ordering if you are immunosuppressed, so I will continue to order them through that channel. However, its not great if you cannot log privately bought tests. What happens if you are eligible for new treatment assessments but cannot access the NHS LFD tests?

[Exeter21]

Not had anything through yet. My booster was early November so should have been due March . Told to ring haemotology for confirmation . I am in Devon Exeter area . Julia 👍

[Bluesloth1]

Not had anything and I can’t order from the website anymore so it looks like I’m not included again. I am very tired fighting for any recognition. If it wasn’t that I’m a carer for a family member as well I’d probably not bother but I can’t afford to get ill.

[azaelea in reply to Bluesloth1]

It’s such a hit and miss affair! I had to fight for my 4th booster and eventually got it after Haematologist wrote to GP saying I was eligible. It was then arranged at a pharmacy as GP’s we’re not vaccinating any more.

[Bluesloth1 in reply to azaelea]

I’ve had letters from the hospital to my GP. I just don’t think they are interested. I’m pleased you are hopefully sorted.

[mark382 in reply to Bluesloth1]

I didn't have the original shielding letter. So contacted GP January 2021 with a copy of letters from MPNN Voive and Blood Cancer UK. GP coded me and then had shielding letter. Had call for 3 doses of vacation, but heard nothing for 4th, even though I know people who are Immunosuppressed have had theirs. Maybe I'm not classed as Immunosuppressed as on aspirin and venesections. Like you I'm an unpaid carer for my wife and think if I get the virus and I'm ill who'll look after her and me as she can't, as she can no longer read and is partially sighted after a stroke. Again like you I'm fed up of chasing the NHS and if they contact me for 4th dose etc then fine. If not I won't bother, the system, if there is one will have to take over. Sorry for rant, but I'm fed up of constantly chasing. Take care.

[Bluesloth1 in reply to mark382]

I feel for you. It is so frustrating and really stressful. I am on HU. My Haematology dept has sent several letters to my GP who I think must not agree. I feel like I am a nuisance or a hypochondriac when I contact the surgery. I feel sick at the thought of contacting them again which is an irony. I care for my Mum who is 90, very poorly and lives with me. Like your situation she is totally dependent on me. I would be tempted to go to a walk-in vaccine centre with any paperwork you have. There are letters on the MPN Voice website. Best of luck.

[mark382 in reply to Bluesloth1]

Thanks. Not easy when you have someone so dependent. I might try letters as proof and see how it goes. Take care.

[DottyDaisy]

Hi Azalea, yes I got the email 2 days ago and the box of 7 x LFT yesterday. Also got the email last month which was followed up with a PCR test in the post, which they magnanimously say I can still keep. Might be useful in 2 weeks when I'm told I need a PCR 3 days before hip surgery. (Yippee)

[azaelea in reply to DottyDaisy]

Oh, good luck with your hip surgery. I had a replacement operation several years ago and it was fine. Yes, your PCR might come in handy before the op. Best wishes, Fran

[Michali45]

I’ve received the same, the email and a box of LF tests this morning. Very impressive!

[trotty100]

me too still waiting for lateral flow tests in post