COVID-19 Coronavirus
Testing
We are able to offer 2 types of test for COVID-19:
- Throat + Nose swab for PCR to detect active infection. Done in first 5 days of illness
- Blood test for Antibodies (IgG) to detect past infection or response to vaccination. Done at least 14 days after onset. More details below.
We offer Antibody testing for COVID-19. This is an accredited, lab-based blood test for the IgG Antibody to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). It will be processed by our regular laboratory partners, TDL (The Doctors Laboratory, the UK’s largest independent diagnostic service).
The Antibody test is designed to tell you whether you have been previously infected with COVID-19 and your body has developed the IgG antibody in response. It is not a test for current infection (that is the PCR swab). Most patients who recover from coronavirus have been found to produce antibodies, but it is not yet known if an individual with a positive result for IgG following being infected with SARS-CoV-2 will be protected, either fully or partially from future infection, or for how long protective immunity may last.
This test is different to the finger-prick cartridge-type tests that we previously advised people to avoid due to their lack of accuracy. It requires a blood sample to be sent to the laboratory. At present this can only be a standard blood sample taken at the GP Practice. (Previously, home sampling was available but this has been paused pending CE-mark approval for the home sampling kit). We would need to have a consultation with you prior to organising the test. The result should take 24 hours and we will email it out to you.
The stated accuracy for this test (Abbott IgG antibody test) from TDL is a Specificity of 100% and Sensitivity of 97.5% and the test has been independently evaluated, e.g. by The Greninger Lab in the US, with similar or better results. This means that inaccurate results, particularly false positive results, are very unlikely and we feel confident offering it.
Please get in touch if you would like to discuss or have this test. You need to be a minimum of 14 days after the onset of symptoms for the blood test to be reliable.
Brief Summary of Test Details:
Name: COVID-19 IgG antibody test (Abbott)
Sample: Venous blood - drawn by Doctor
Timing: Minimum 14 days after onset of symptoms
Results: 24 hours from sample arrival in lab.
Use: Indicates previous infection with COVID-19. Presence of IgG antibodies may indicate immunity, although there remains uncertainty about the question of immunity and research is ongoing.
Reliability: Specificity 100%, Sensitivity 97.5%
Cost: £45 plus standard consultation fees *from £125
Aside from the new test, we continue to offer PCR swabs at a cost of £100 for anyone with symptoms or who may require it for travel or work. This requires a telephone or video consultation first to discuss appropriateness if you have symptoms.
Guidance relating to Covid-19 from KLFP
Due to Government and Public Health guidelines, we are unable to see patients in the clinic who have symptoms suggestive of COVID 19. The most common recognised symptoms are fever (above 37.8C) or a new onset cough. Loss of smell or taste is also recognised as a common symptom. Any respiratory symptoms can be suggestive and around 10% of patients are reported to have gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea.
The practice continues to run as close to normally as possible. We have been present at 2 Lower Sloane Street throughout the pandemic. Telephone and video consultations are available as well as face to face appointments. Home visits continue to be possible, provided COVID is not suspected. Please contact the practice if you would like us to book an appointment for you.
Within the practice, our Doctors are wearing PPE for all consultations. We encourage you to arrive no more than 5 minutes early for your appointment and we will keep waiting to a minimum.
For up to date information and government advice, please visit:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
We appreciate your understanding as we all get used to new ways of working. We will continue to answer your emails, telephone calls and voicemail as quickly as possible.