LFD service myth busting series (#1)

This is the first of a series of articles to tackle some of the misconceptions around the Lateral Flow Device (LFD) service. The articles will cover a variety of aspects of the LFD service and aims to myth bust, to increase understanding of the service.

The LFD service is no longer available from community pharmacies.
Wrong! The LFD service is still commissioned, so pharmacy owners who have signed up to the service can still supply eligible patients with LFD tests following the requirements set out in the service specification.

Only pharmacists can provide the service.
Wrong! All appropriately trained members of staff can provide the service. However, pharmacy staff may need to consult with the pharmacist or pharmacy technician if the patient/patient representative does not present with a letter confirming eligibility, as access to the NCRS may be needed to confirm eligibility.

Eligible patients must have symptoms of COVID-19, before obtaining LFD tests via the service.
Wrong! Wherever possible, eligible patients should obtain LFD tests via the service in advance of developing symptoms.

We can provide the LFD service from an off-site location, for example, if we are providing the COVID-19 Vaccination Service at a designated vaccination site.
Wrong! No. The provision of the service can only be undertaken from the pharmacy premises.