HealthHero is stepping up its plans in the health & protection industry with a new initiative to tackle Covid-19, a senior appointment and further partnerships with specialist intermediaries.
The primary care and diagnostics specialist – previously known as Medical Solutions – has partnered with not-for-profit Testing For All in order to offer clinically-validated, home-administered, saliva COVID-19 RT-PCR tests and antibody tests at a reduced price for clients.
David Jennings has also taken on the role of sales director, while a collaboration with Towergate Health & Protection is making ground.
At £85, the CE-marked 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. This 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).
A spokesperson for HealthHero said the test is “easy to self-administer from home” and requires a 0.5ml finger prick blood sample, which is approximately 10-15 drops. Valid results can be expected as soon as 14 days after the onset of symptoms.
Once received, results are processed and posted on the online portal in 2-3 days.
Paul Nattrass, commercial director at HealthHero, said 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.”
David Jennings, meanwhile, is settling into his new role as commercial director, in a new role following a career which has taken in spells at Jelf, Sesame Bankhall Group and Aviva.
HealthHero also recently announced a tie-up with Towergate Health & Protection, signalling its intentions to grow its footprint in the health & protection intermediary space.
The new service – called “GP Hero” – has been designed to enable employees to receive “unlimited advice” and “reassurance” from a doctor 24/7.
The service – which also offers, “where appropriate”, diagnosis – is being offered to the consultancy firm’s SME, corporate PMI and group risk clients that wish to provide employees and their families with fast access to primary care services.
