Categories
RT-PCR Test
When should I book the RT-PCR Test before my flight?
In order to stop the spread of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), many countries require tourists entering to prove that they don’t have coronavirus. This is done by taking a RT-PCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) Swab Test from the deep throat and nose to detect the actual virus.
These tests have to be processed by a laboratory for them to be considered valid by the destination country.
Once the results are processed our GMC registered doctor will issue a signed medical certificate and a laboratory result document which is valid for travel. The RT-PCR Certificate will allow you to be admitted on the plane by most airlines. To date, we have had NO traveller refused travel based on our tests or certificate.
How long will it take to receive my results and RT-PCR travel certificate?
With a quick turnaround of RT-PCR testing in central Stoke-on-Trent, we provide a reliable and quick service so that you can attend to your urgent matters overseas. We are open 7 days a week including weekends. We do the tests every day between 9:00am and 4:00pm so we can get the tests to the laboratory on time for processing.
As long as the test is done in our clinic in the morning, we then guarantee to get the results back by 5pm the next day for stndard PCR tests.
For Urgent PCR tests please try to book an appointment before 12 noon so this gives us plenty of time to get the result back to you by 5am the following morning.
What information do I need to provide?
This is a very important part of the process – the details you provide us for the test and certificate HAVE TO MATCH your passport details. Please check that you provide us with:
Full Name
Date of birth
Gender
UK Home address
Mobile phone number
E-mail
How will I get my RT-PCR Certificate?
Your Travel certificate and laboratory result will be sent to you in a PDF format via email. Our team works round the clock in evenings and weekends to process these. This is to ensure we can deliver on our promise of getting your certificate over to you in time for your travel. We advise you to print it out prior to your flight and also keep a copy in your email records.
If there are any issues, you can contact our admin team on 01782 213 214 or email info@firstmc.co.uk and we will aim to sort your issue as quickly as possible.
What will the test be like?
Book in an online appointment with us.
Pick a time slot that fits with your own schedule.
Get the test done at our clinic. The RT-PCR test is performed by taking a nasal and pharyngeal (back of the throat) swab which is then placed in an appropriate container.
After the swab has been taken our courier takes your swab to one of our UKAS approved laboratories to process your sample. Once the sample reaches the laboratory it is “signed in”. Your details are checked and your RT-PCR swab is placed in an “assay” for testing. The process is overseen by a virologist to ensure regulations are met.
Wait for your results. We will send you a certificate as a PDF to the contact details that you have provided. The results will be with you before 5 pm the next day.
What information is going to be included in my Fit to Fly travel certificate?
The certificate will include the key information below.
Your name, date of birth, home address.
What date and time the sample was taken.
Covid-19 status (which should hopefully be negative)
Signature from a GMC registered Doctor
Laboratory result.
Can the test be done in babies and children?
Yes, we test all children above the age of 12 months and adults. The cost of the test is £150 for both adults and children.
Will I get an airline certificate that will allow me to fly?
Yes, once the results are available, you will receive a certificate that you can use to be admitted in the countries you want to go to. We send your result to your email address. You can further print it and present it to the airlines. Alternatively, some of them accept digital proof but you need to check with them beforehand.
Can I order a test, rather than coming to your clinic?
No, we only offer the option of testing at our clinic as this ensures the test is done properly and results are returned in a timely manner.
Is your laboratory regulated?
We send the tests to our UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) approved laboratory where the tests are analysed. The test has received the CE mark which means that it is in line with the EU safety rules. First Medical Consultants is also UKAS registered to ISO 15189 standard.
Which countries can I travel to?
Given the current situation, the list of countries that you can travel to is updated on a regular basis. It is best to go on the Government website in order to fully ensure that the destination you want to travel to allows visitors.
Will the test tell me if I’ve recently had the virus?
A RT-PCR Test is able to identify whether you have the virus at the moment of testing. It looks for the DNA of the virus itself.
Do I need to bring anything with me to the test?
You do not need to bring anything with you to your appointment apart from proof of photo ID like a Passport. A Fit to Fly Travel Certificate for airlines will be issued the following day by 5pm when we receive your results back from the lab. Please ensure that you are wearing a mask all the time during your visit and only those with an appointment for the test attend the clinic. Please only arrive 5 minutes before your appointment slot.
Can I get a RT-PCR test from the Government?
The tests offered by the government are not for travel purposes and they do not provide a fit-to-fly certificate. If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, please visit the Government site to get more information about their testing.
Do you offer a Rapid Antigen testing?
YES – our Rapid Antigen tests can be performed within 1 to 2 hours in our clinic. If you are in a situation where you need an urgent test then please do call us to discuss this at the soonest opportunity. The cost for these is £69 per passenger and a number of countries are alllowing Rapid Antigen tests to be used for travelling. You will be issued with a Fit to Travel certificate with each Negative result for a Rapid Antigen (lateral flow test).
Test To Release
When does the Test to Release scheme start?
The Test to Release scheme comes into effect on 15th December 2020. You cannot opt in to take part before that.
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