Do you need to get a COVID-19 test done privately? You may be wondering what type of COVID-19 tests you can have, or which criteria apply for those eligible?
In this blog, we are going to clear up some of the most common questions regarding getting a private COVID-19 test in London. We start with some basic information about the virus, and move on to answer some typical queries regarding a private COVID test London wide.
What is COVID-19?
The COVID-19 virus – officially named SARS-CoV-2 and also known as the Coronavirus – is a respiratory condition. In many cases people who get infected notice no symptoms. In other cases, people will have mild symptoms or have severe problems, such as breathing difficulty. It is understood that you have more risk of getting serious symptoms if you are older, or have a pre-existing health condition such as heart disease or diabetes.
What types of COVID tests are available?
Typically, the COVID tests which will be available to you privately would be a PCR swab test or an antibody test. A PCR swab test – also known as an antigen test, or simply ‘swab’ – checks whether you are currently infected with the virus. The swab is taken from the throat and nose, or in some cases a saliva sample can be used. Results are available anything from a few hours to three days after the test.
An antibody test checks for antibodies which can reveal that you have been infected with the virus previously. It takes a blood sample which allows the presence of antibodies to be tested – this can indicate if you have developed immunity to the virus. Unlike a PCR swab test, an antibody test can’t show if you currently have the virus. At present, there is no evidence to suggest that people who have had COVID-19 automatically develop long term immunity that prevents them from becoming infected again.
Who is able to have a COVID-19 test?
There are currently no restrictions on who can arrange a private covid test in London. You are able to book a PCR swab test at a wide range of private facilities all over the capital, including My Healthcare Clinic.
However, you should note that the government has stated only people with COVID symptoms can have a free test on the NHS. In essence, NHS tests are not used simply to confirm negative status.
Where can I get a private COVID test in London?
My Healthcare Clinic offers the opportunity for those who are concerned about COVID-19 to be tested privately. We offer approved tests, including an instant “Rapid” Swab Test that can produce results in just two to four hours. We also provide PCR swab tests and COVID ‘fit to fly’ Travel Certificates, as well as the ‘Abbott’ antibody test.
All of our tests have a verified accuracy of 99 per cent and are CE, PHE or UK Government approved. Cases of positive test results will be reviewed by our clinical team.
How long does it take to receive COVID test results?
With our “Rapid” Swab Test, you will be given your tests results in just two to four hours. This can be perfect when you need the results quickly for work or travel purposes. For standard PCR swab tests, it may take 24 hours for a laboratory to run your test, and the results can take several days to become available because factors such as laboratory backlogs can come into play.
As a private GP in London, we can offer a private COVID test whether you are interested in a “Rapid” Swab Test, PCR swab test, COVID ‘fit to fly’ Travel Certificate or ‘Abbott’ antibody test? Call My Healthcare Clinic today on 0207 129 8626.