We've partnered up with Everything Genetic to bring you a COVID-19 at home PCR test, which can tell you if you currently have coronavirus (COVID-19).
The COVID-19 at home PCR testing kit contains a nasal/throat swab and instructions of how to carry out the test to see if you are infected with COVID-19. You will receive your testing kit within 36 hours of order and receive your result within 48 hours of your test getting back to our partner lab†.
†subject to royal mail services running normally.
- This test can be used to check if you have COVID-19 even if you don’t have symptoms
- It can be used if you do currently have symptoms and want to know if it is COVID-19
- You can also purchase a kit in advance so you have one ready should you need one
This at home COVID-19 test is the same type of test carried out by the NHS. In taking the test you are agreeing that your data can be shared with government organisations for COVID-19 purposes. For example for clinical research or public health monitoring. In addition your data may be entered into the NHS test and trace system. If you do not wish your data to be used in this way then you should not order the test.
Price: £129 (includes the testing kit, pre-paid postage and follow-up advice) ††.
††Royal Mail Tracked 24 Postage is included in the price of your kit. Delivery times are subject to royal mail services running normally.
PCR testing will tell you if you currently have COVID-19, rather than a past infection. If you want to know whether you may previously have had COVID-19 and have detectable antibodies, you need to take an antibody test.
How does our COVID-19 at home PCR testing service work?
Step 1: Order your testing kit from Everything Genetic
You can order a test kit online from our approved partner Everything Genetic. You’ll need to create an account to complete your order.
Step 2: Test yourself
The testing kit will instruct you on how to perform the nasal and throat swab.
If you have ordered a kit in advance please store safely until you need to use it. Our COVID-19 at home PCR tests can be used up to 6 months after purchase.
Step 3: Return your kit
You will need to follow the instructions enclosed in your kit and then post it back to our partner lab using the Royal Mail label supplied. Please note it is best to use a Royal Mail priority post box, tests cannot be taken into a post office.
Step 4: Need extra support?
If you get a positive result and wish to discuss this with our team, you are entitled to a follow up call with our Anytime HealthLine service within 3 months of your test results
Why should I buy a COVID-19 at home PCR test with Bupa?
- We're partnered with Everything Genetic - a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited laboratory - to do our testing You don’t need to be a Bupa insurance customer
- A follow up call with a nurse valid within 3 months of your test, if you have further questions or concerns
- Get your result within 48 hours of the test arriving back at our partner lab ††
- One price includes the test and follow up advice
††Royal Mail Tracked 24 Postage is included in the price of your kit. Delivery times are subject to royal mail services running normally.
If you’re interested in coronavirus (COVID-19) testing for your business, we can help.
The test can confirm if you have COVID-19. A positive result confirms that you are currently infected, and you and your household should therefore follow government guidelines on self-isolation.
The test works by taking a swab from the back of the throat and inner nostril. The swab is then sent to the lab, where they will analyse the sample by looking for the virus’ genetic material.
Our partner laboratory aims to deliver results within 48 hours of the kit being received at the lab.
The accuracy of PCR testing is based on two things, firstly the accuracy of using a swab as a technique for detecting COVID-19, and secondly the accuracy of test that the laboratory uses.
- Research suggests the sensitivity (ability to pick-up individuals who are infected with COVID-19) when using a swab is between 70-90%. This means that some individuals who are infected may still get a negative result, which is true of all PCR testing. The sensitivity (ability to detect COVID-19 in someone who has it) of Everything Genetic’s laboratory test is over 99%.
- The specificity (ability to correctly produce a negative result in those who don’t have COVID-19) of this PCR test is also over 99%. This means that 99% of individuals who do not have COVID-19 will correctly be identified as having a negative result.
The accuracy of a test is based on a combination of these factors, and gives information about infection at the time it was taken – it can’t predict whether someone might develop COVID-19 after taking the test. A negative result does not completely rule out current infection and it is therefore essential to follow social distancing guidelines. Those with symptoms should follow government guidance on self-isolation.
The chances of getting a false positive test result (testing positive when you don’t have COVID-19) is very low.
Bupa Anytime HealthLine is provided by Bupa Occupational Health Limited. Registered in England and Wales No. 631336. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London EC2R 7HJ
Bupa Occupational Health Limited provides testing for COVID-19 by working together with Everything Genetic Limited.
Bupa Occupational Health Limited. Registered in England and Wales No. 631336. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London EC2R 7HJ.
Terms and conditions for Self Pay GP Services and COVID-19 antibody testing (PDF, 175KB)
