Boots to offer 12-minute Covid testing service within weeks

Boots is to offer a coronavirus testing service it says can return results from swab tests in only 12 minutes.

The pharmacy chain said the LumiraDx devices, which are able to quickly process swab tests to give customers same-day results, will be rolled out in selected stores over the next few weeks.

The price will be £120 per test, which Boots said would make it one of the cheapest private Covid-19 tests available on the market.

Boots has also launched a 48-hour testing service that is available in 10 stores across London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow, with plans to extend the programme to more than 50 outlets across the nation.

The service is available as a private pre-flight test for customers who require one before travelling abroad or as a solution for those who would prefer peace of mind before seeing friends and family.

Seb James, Boots’ UK managing director, said the programme was being implemented as a way to help ease the pressure on the nation’s health services.
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“Boots has supported the government’s Covid-19 testing programme from the very start and offering this new in-store service is the next step in our efforts to fight against the pandemic,” he said.

“We hope that by offering this testing option in local community stores, Boots can help ease pressure on the NHS and the government by providing additional access to testing and crucial reassurances for people across the UK.

“As part of the UK high street for over 170 years, Boots is proud to serve on the frontline alongside the NHS and we will continue to do our part to support the nation’s healthcare needs during this challenging time and beyond.”

Customers who are not displaying any Covid-19 symptoms will be able to book an in-store test through the company’s website, Boots.com.