Site set up for key workers to get Covid-19 tests stops accepting applications
THE part of the gov.uk website set up for key workers to book coronavirus tests was not accepting new applications by mid-morning on Friday.
The website, which enables people to book tests at a drive through centre or register for a home test, said: ‘Coronavirus test: applications closed. You can't currently register for a Covid-19 test. Please check back here later.
‘If you need any information and advice on Covid-19, read our pages on coronavirus.’
The Department of Health has been approached for comment by PA.
A drive-through test centre is set to open in Portsmouth for NHS staff and key workers.
According to sources, the centre will be based in Tipner West, just off the M275.
The government has expanded the groups of key workers who will be able to get tested for coronavirus if they have symptoms.
The priority remains testing patients to inform their clinical diagnosis.
However the following categories of people will also be eligible for testing:
- all NHS and social care staff, including hospital, community and primary care, relevant staff providing support to frontline NHS services, and voluntary workers. Examples include:
- clinicians
- nurses
- GPs
- staff in community pharmacy
- healthcare assistants
- those providing hotel accommodation for NHS staff
- police, fire and rescue services, including the National Crime Agency, security agencies, MOD police and the British Transport Police
These categories apply in England only. Devolved administrations’ lists may vary.
This list is not exhaustive and local and regional areas can refer other frontline workers in their area for testing as determined by need and available capacity.