How will the Test to Release system work?
If your country is not on the travel corridor list you will need to order your Test to Release kit if you wish to shorten your self-isolation period, subject to a negative result.
Day 1: Arrive in the United Kingdom. You need to go straight to your self isolation destination and follow the UK Government instructions.
Day 5: After 5 full days of self isolation you can now take your test. Follow the instructions and send back your sample using the provided postage paid mailing bag.
Day 6/7: Sample arrives at our partner laboratory for testing
Day 7/8: Your PDF results will be sent via email. If a negative result is returned, you are able to end your self-isolation period.
How do I take the test once I receive the kit?
Collect: Collect your sample by swabbing the back of your throat, then nose.
Send: Return your sample to the lab in the pre-paid return postage mailing bag.
How soon will I receive my results?
Results are available online within 24 hours from when your sample is received by the lab. We are not liable for any delays due to increased demand or delays with postage.
Is your laboratory safe and approved?
Our Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) by RT-qPCR test is approved by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Our tests are performed by an ISO 17025 UKAS accredited lab supporting the NHS and healthcare industry. Check My Body Health are a gov.uk approved private test provider.
When should I take the test?
After 5 full days of self isolation you can now take your test. Do not take you test or send before otherwise you will void your test. Follow the instructions and send back your sample using the provided postage paid mailing bag. Samples should be sent to the lab the same day as you collect them. The test can only detect if you were infected with SARS-CoV-2 at the time you’ve collected your sample. The test does not check if you have been infected with the virus previously.
How do I send my sample?
You will be sent a PCR sampling kit which includes everything you need to take your sample and send to our testing laboratory with a postage paid mailing bag. Kits will arrive by post by Royal Mail Tracked 24. A Royal Mail Tracked 24 return label is also provided with every kit for you to return to our testing centre.
Please note that all PCR tests can only be returned using Royal Mail priority postboxes. Priority postboxes are listed on the Royal Mail website at https://www.royalmail.com/services-near-you
If you are returning your sample on the weekend please be aware that samples posted on a Saturday are expected to arrive at the lab on Monday, on some occasions this has arrived on Tuesday. Samples sent on a Sunday are expected to arrive on the following Tuesday.
Can I leave the house to return my swab sample?
You may leave your house to post your test or to travel directly to and from a testing site. You should follow safer travel guidance and avoid public transport if possible.
What results could your report tell me?
Your test results will be described as negative, positive or unclear.
What is the NHS coronavirus helpline?
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.
Only call 111 if you cannot get help online. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
