Testing for COVID-19

COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests are no longer free for most people.

You may still be able to get free COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests from the NHS if you:

have a health condition which means you're eligible for COVID-19 treatment
work in healthcare settings or in a hospice

Information about testing across the UK

Northern Ireland

Information updated 19th August 2024

Latest

Patients Association response to the Darzi Review

Lord Darzi has today released his diagnosis of the NHS. We welcome Lord Darzi's stark NHS diagnosis, and call for urgent patient-centred reforms.
The role of data in joining services around patients

Concerns about privacy and safety of patient data were highlighted in the last of our Patient Partnership Week webinars for 2024, with Rebecca Llewellyn from NHS England and patients Sandra Rennie and Amin Islam.
Communication strategies for patients

Poor communication between the health system and patients is a big issue for many patients. Our panel discussed some of the problems and what the solutions could be.
Empowering patients as equal partners in care

Why aren't patients always treated as equals in their own care? We looked at the reasons why, in this webinar during Patient Partnership Week 2024.

Related

Our role in the UK COVID-19 Inquiry

The Patients Association is as a core participant in the UK COVID-19 Inquiry. In this article, we explain our involvement.
Antivirals for COVID-19 infection

Treatments are available for COVID-19. This page provides information and links to who is eligble and how to get treatment.
Pandemic Patient Experience II

Our second survey of patients' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Most read

Seeing your medical records

This page explains how to get copies of your medical records in England.
You and your dentist

This page is designed to give you more information about finding a dentist and using their services. It includes tips on how to prepare for an appointment, the charges you can expect and how to make a complaint.
Next of kin

Your medical next of kin is someone you nominate to receive information about your medical care.
Making a complaint

Most people are happy with the health and social care they receive. But sometimes things go wrong. If that happens, you need to know how to complain. This guide sets out your rights and offers guidance on how to make a complaint.
Helpline - 0800 345 7115

Need information on health or social care? Call our free and confidential helpline on 0800 345 7115 (Mon-Fri 9.30am and 5pm).
Long term conditions

About 25 million people in England have a long-term condition. A long-term condition is an illness that cannot be cured. It can usually be controlled with medicines or other treatments.
How we see the world

We believe that everyone should have access to the best healthcare when they need it most.
Make the most of your GP appointment

This page is to help you make the most of your GP appointment. It includes tips on how to prepare, what to ask and how to remember the information given to you.
Governance

Meet our Board of Trustees and Chief Executive.
Job vacancies

Discover what it's like working for the Patients Association and find out about current opportunities.

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