NHS Wales Lateral Flow Test Distribution Service
Background
The NHS offers treatment to people with COVID-19 who are at risk of becoming seriously ill. These eligible at-risk patients will now able to obtain tests through this community pharmacy service.
Objective
Following symptoms of infection, eligible at-risk patients will be able to access at home testing for COVID-19. A positive result will be used to inform clinical assessment to determine whether the patient is suitable for and will benefit from NICE-recommended COVID-19 treatments.
Overview
The service launched on the 8th January 2024.
Patient eligibility must be confirmed before making a supply. Patients must part of the potentially eligible for COVID-19 treatment cohort (as detailed in NICE guideline Supporting information on risk factors for progression to severe COVID-19).
A fee of £4.00 +VAT will be paid for each patient supply.
What do contractors need to do to prepare?
To register, each pharmacy should have completed the NWSSP electronic listing form, providing the requested information and preferred start date, by the 27th November 2023.
LFTs must be ordered from the agreed NHS Wales supplier (details will be published on the NWSSP website). These will be supplied free of charge.
Resources
LFT Distribution Service SOP Template
Service Specification for the Distribution of Lateral Flow Tests