Archive: this announcement dates from March 2020 and is retained for reference. The COVID-19 testing service described here is no longer offered, and the information reflects the situation at the time of publication.
For immediate release: 25 March 2020
Rightangled launches COVID-19 test
Home-based COVID-19 test, with 50% subsidised cost for NHS frontline staff
London: Rightangled Limited launched a home-based testing kit for COVID-19 on 23 March 2020, delivered directly to users and offering a route for people to test themselves during the early stage of the pandemic.
"We launched our COVID-19 test as a measure to assist in the testing process for Public Health England and NHS frontline staff. Over the last 24 hours since launching, we have seen a significant influx in orders, particularly from NHS doctors and frontline staff who are in need of this test. We are today happy to announce that all orders coming from NHS frontline workers will be eligible for a subsidised 50% refund," said Abdullah Sabyah, CEO of Rightangled Limited.
How it worked
The kit was delivered to the user's door and contained a throat collection swab with instructions for use. Once the sample was collected and registered online, the kit was returned to a partner laboratory in a provided pre-paid return box. Kits included swab buffer and a biohazard bag, and were labelled in line with published guidance for sample handling and transportation at the time.
Testing method
Testing used a qPCR assay detecting viral RNA from a throat swab sample. Presence of viral nucleic material indicated infection; absence indicated a negative result.
Laboratory
Samples were processed by a partner laboratory operating to established standards of quality assurance, quality control and biosafety.
Performance data cited at the time
Manufacturer and evaluation data available in March 2020 indicated high specificity for the assay used. Readers should note that assay evaluation, regulatory requirements and clinical understanding of COVID-19 testing all changed substantially in the period following this announcement.
About Rightangled
Rightangled is a UK-registered online pharmacy providing prescription treatments, home blood tests and DNA tests. We are registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (9011933) and the Care Quality Commission. Our clinical team includes GPhC-registered independent prescribers, with medical oversight from our doctor, Dr Abdullah.
If you are outside the UK, our sister service Medetone serves patients in other markets.
This page is retained as a historical record. For current services, please see our blood tests range.
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