Who can get a free NHS COVID-19 rapid lateral flow test (LFT)??
NHS COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests are no longer free for most people.
You may still be able to get free COVID-19 rapid lateral flow tests from the NHS if you have a health condition which means you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatment.
The NHS offers COVID-19 treatment to people with COVID-19 who are at risk of becoming seriously ill.
Rapid lateral flow device (LFD) tests are currently available to order by these patients on GOV.UK or by calling 119 for delivery directly to the patient’s home.
This is changing.
From 6 November 2023, LFD tests will no longer be available via GOV.UK or via 119.
LFD tests still need to be available and easily accessible to people who are potentially eligible for COVID-19 treatments. These patients should have tests available to access in advance of developing symptoms.
This will be via a walk-in service where patients/patients’ representatives can collect one box of five LFD tests from a participating community pharmacy, on confirmation that the patient is part of the cohort which is potentially eligible for COVID-19 treatments.
