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Dido Harding says daily 'moonshot' tests which will (eventually) allow people to go to the theatre, hug family, attend conferences etc will not be available on the NHS
She tells the CBI they will be 'cost of doing business'
Story @theipaper https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
Dido Harding says daily 'moonshot' tests which will (eventually) allow people to go to the theatre, hug family, attend conferences etc will not be available on the NHS
She tells the CBI they will be 'cost of doing business'
Story @theipaper https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
Currently, privately available covid tests cost at least £100. But the 'moonshot' scheme is based on emerging technology which doesn't require a lab to analyse results - so the cost *could* be significantly cheaper. https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
Harding suggested the proposed tests for non-symptomatic people would be "a business and a consumer product, rather than a symptomatic healthcare product".
She emphasised that the existing tests for those showing covid symptoms will always be free. https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
She emphasised that the existing tests for those showing covid symptoms will always be free. https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
Understand that some 'moonshot' tests WILL be available on the NHS as part of existing Test & Trace programme, but businesses will be able to buy additional tests if they need them for commercial purposes eg opening theatres or holding large conferences. https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
UPDATE
The 15-minute tests will be available for free to people with symptoms as a replacement/supplement for existing swab tests.
But those who want a test for leisure purposes likely to have to pay (as individuals or through a company). https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
The 15-minute tests will be available for free to people with symptoms as a replacement/supplement for existing swab tests.
But those who want a test for leisure purposes likely to have to pay (as individuals or through a company). https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/daily-moonshot-tests-covid-nhs-paid-by-public-655089
DHSC spox: "We are investing in new, faster tests to be available to the public, for free, through NHS Test and Trace for those who need it. Deploying the next generation of tests, which may reduce the need for social distancing in specific circumstances, will require...
... a collaboration between businesses, Government and the NHS. We continue to explore these options."
