John Bell & Croyden, the luxury UK pharmacy, has expanded its in-store Covid-19 testing services with a new high-speed test said to deliver accurate results in 15 minutes.
With an accuracy of 93%, the BIOZEK Medical Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test Cassette can be carried out in-store and involves a swab of the nose and throat.
As England eases its lockdown restrictions, including allowing families to form a 'bubble' with two other households for five days over the Christmas period, John Bell & Croyden hopes that its latest test will help reassure consumers they can visit their loved ones safely without risk of infection.
Reshma Malde, Superintendent Pharmacist at John Bell & Croyden, said: “We hope that by offering this rapid 15-minute testing option in local community stores, John Bell & Croyden can provide additional access to testing and supply our customers with the confidence that they can safely see their loved ones during the festive period and beyond.”
Malde also revealed that the pharmacy has seen a surge in enquiries and bookings for its Covid-19 rapid testing service since the UK government announced it would be easing restrictions over Christmas, with more than 1000 customers seeking a Covid-19 test in the last two months.
First rolled out in October, the pharmacy currently offers testing services with same-day and next-day results, allowing consumers to provide negative Covid-19 results before travelling, or to offer peace of mind to those concerned about meeting up with others.
Going forwards, John Bell & Croyden also hopes to help ease the pressure on the UK's health care services with its in-store services, as well as providing support for consumers who may be unable to visit their GP during the pandemic.
Malde added: “Pharmacists have taken on a vital role through the pandemic, offering advice and guidance to those who are unable or reluctant to visit GP practices, and they are likely to continue to play a more primary health care role into the future.
“Offering this new 15-minute test is the next step in our efforts to fight against the pandemic, and to help provide the reassurance customers increasingly seek.”
Available at the pharmacy's Wigmore Street store in Marylebone, London, the 15-minute antigen test costs £150 and should be booked online at johnbellcroyden.co.uk.
