change in ordering lateral flow tests

[Main1234]

hope everyone is as well as can be and prepared for Autumn/ Winter.

Not sure if everyone is aware but the way lateral flows are ordered I understand is going to change in early November, not sure about Scotland or Wales.

Now going to be via pharmacy. Not sure how this is going to work or how we prove we are immune suppressed, we get all medication via hospital. We have order more lateral flow tests this morning.

Has anyone else heard about this change?

[piglette]

This is the latest info I know about from the government in testing for Covid and getting LFTs.

gov.uk/government/publicati...

[Main1234 in reply to piglette]

My understanding is that the system is due to be changed from the 6th November, ordering online will cease

NHS England is in the process of updating the website.

[piglette in reply to Main1234]

This is guidance from 21 September 2023 they have added you can now use tests purchased from pharmacies or shops (last line)

COVID-19 testing

In England, patients eligible for COVID-19 treatments can access LFD tests from the government.

If you are eligible for COVID-19 treatments, please make sure you have a supply of LFD tests at home so that you can test yourself quickly if you develop symptoms of COVID-19

Symptoms of COVID-19, flu and other respiratory infections include

a high temperature

unexplained tiredness or lack of energy

shortness of breath

a loss of, or change to, your normal sense of smell or taste

You can order free NHS rapid lateral flow test kits on GOV.UK or by calling NHS 119. Test kits contain instructions and links to support for those who need assistance in testing

You can also now use tests purchased from a pharmacy or shop.

[Investigator1 in reply to Main1234]

Hi Main1234, another cost cutting exercise no doubt, however I do think some people who are entitled to order them free are ordering them for friends and relatives who are not eligible. I was talking to a woman on my last hospital visit and she had ordered LFTs every 3 days since Lord knows how long ago. A bit irresponsible to say the least! Fortunately my Pharmacist is very good and knows my condition, they ask me if I want the Covid jab and they ordered my Antivirals. Just glad my GP surgery aren’t involved in the process, then it would go pearshape. Nick.

[Main1234 in reply to Investigator1]

Interestingly I have just been into our local pharmacy who is very helpful and he knew nothing about these changes!!

[Investigator1 in reply to Main1234]

Considering it’s only a couple of weeks away it’s worrying but not surprising. CEV is now a Prehistoric Term. Nick.

[Main1234 in reply to Investigator1]

You are so right

[DorsetLady]

Where did you get this info? cannot find anything on HMG Covid site nor NHS ….

[Main1234 in reply to DorsetLady]

I follow “ Forgotten lives UK “ on face book and it was posted by Mark Oakley. always good up to date information, research etc

[DorsetLady in reply to Main1234]

Okay, thanks….