At the start of the pandemic PCR testing was the only approved method of SARS-CoV-2 virus detection. In December, the MHRA approved the first lateral flow devices (LFDs) or ‘Rapid Tests’ which were approved for use in asymptomatic screening contexts.
This weekend, the government announced the extension of its offer to provide free LFDs, to businesses with 50 or more employees. The tests are available until the end of March. But with an eye on the economy reopening and more business being able to get back to work, business leaders need to consider what, if any, their testing strategy might look like:
- Will free LFDs be available after March?
- Are paid for LFDs a good option?
- Is PCR testing the optimum choice?
- What role do Occupational Health providers play?
- What packages or bespoke plans are available to OH providers?
The reality is, the answer to many of these questions comes down to the organisations testing strategy. What is the business objective?
Over the last month, Covid Testing Network has worked with many leading OH providers and employers seeking to understand which route to pursue. The outcome has been 3 main strategies that businesses are choosing to follow:
- Outbreak management
- Asymptomatic workforce screening
- Protecting a workforce bubble
Covid Testing Network is running a half-hour summary session of their learnings next week. They’ll cover the pros and cons of each strategy depending on the needs of different workplaces. They’ll outline the optimum testing approach for each strategy.
Event: ‘Return to Work Testing Strategy’
Date: Wednesday 17th February
Time: 10.00am-10.30am
Who should attend: OH providers or QHSE leads gearing up to support businesses with return to work testing.
Objective: To support OH providers and businesses in determining which strategy is most applicable to their organisation and to be able to make operational and budget decisions based on the preferred strategic route.
Information and registration