HealthHero – the digital/virtual healthcare provider that was previously Medical Solutions – has partnered with a not-for-profit Covid-19 testing provider to offer RT-PCR tests and antibody tests at a reduced price.
Testing For All provides clinically-validated, home-administered, saliva Covid-19 RT-PCR tests and antibody tests.
For £85, its PCR test will determine whether or not a user is currently carrying SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, regardless of whether they are displaying symptoms.
A HealthHero spokesperson said the test is sensitive enough to detect both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.
In addition, for £39, the Home Total Antibody Test will identify if a user has been exposed to COVID-19 by allowing for the detection of IgM and IgG antibodies, which appear in the blood after infection.
The test is manufactured by Roche (Anti-SARS-CoV-2), can be self-administered from home and requires a 0.5ml finger prick blood sample, which is approximately 10-15 drops. Valid results can be expected from 14 days after the onset of symptoms.
This new service is offered in addition to HealthHero’s existing services, which includes 24/7 access to a GP via an app or phone for diagnosis, advice and reassurance as well as private prescriptions and referral letters. Online video consultations with a GP are also available between 8am and 10pm, seven days a week.
Paul Nattrass, commercial director at HealthHero, said: “We are delighted to partner with Testing For All, to give our users access to competitively priced testing as we move through this pandemic. The ability to utilise fast, reliable and comprehensive testing helps to remove uncertainty, and it gives clients more information to make better decisions in their private and working life. At this stage, there is no strong evidence to know if having antibodies equates to immunity, and for how long, so we urge clients to follow Government guidance.
“The PCR and antibody tests are both supported with our 24/7 virtual GP appointments to provide ongoing advice and support regardless of the test result. The events of the past year have shown that having easy and quick access to expert medical advice has never been more important. With the COVID-19 crisis continuing and access to primary care remaining a challenge, our service provides GP support and advice at any time and from anywhere.”