PCR Tests for COVID-19
Fit to Fly Certificate
✔ Fit to Fly certificate sent securely via email
✔ Same day results available
✔ UKAS accredited & gov.uk listed approved provider
Get a Covid-19 PCR test which includes a fit-to-fly certificate for travel with same day results available from our lab or clinics across the UK
1. Book Online
Book at one of our test centres, at a day and time that suits you, using our easy online booking system.
2. Quick & Easy Test
Attend your appointment and have your PCR test administered by a qualified practitioner.
3. Results & Certificate
Receive your certificate and results securely via email.
Our PCR Testing Centre Locations
Birmingham
Local PCR
170 Holliday Street
Ground Floor
Birmingham
B1 1TJ
Mon – Sat 9am – 8pm
Sun 10am – 6pm
Bristol
Local PCR
100A Fishponds Road
East Trees Health Centre
East Trees pharmacy
BS5 6SA
Mon – Fri 8:45am – 6:30pm
Sat 9am – 5:45pm
Wheelchair Accessible
Hook
Local PCR
Whitewater Pharmacy
Reading Road
Hook
RG27 9ED
Mon – Fri 9am – 8pm
Sat 9am-7pm
Wheelchair Accessible
What is a PCR Test?
A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is performed to detect genetic material from a specific organism, such as a virus. The test detects the presence of a virus if you are infected at the time of the test. The test could also detect fragments of virus even after you are no longer infected.
A PCR test for COVID-19 is a test used to diagnosis people who are currently infected with SARS-CoV-2, which is the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The PCR test is the “gold standard” test for diagnosing COVID-19 because it’s the most accurate and reliable test.
How Does It Work?
A PCR test requires a small sample to be collected from your nose/throat; this is where the virus is most likely to be present. It is then sent to lab scientists who check the sample for the presence of COVID-19.
What is a Fit-to-Fly Certificate?
A fit-to-fly certificate is an issued document which validates your negative Covid-19 PCR test result, to enable you to board your flight or transportation, and enter your destination.
At present, most airlines and destinations require PCR testing and certificates to be issued within 24-72 hours of departure.
Local PCR can test you for COVID-19 and issue a certificate in time for your flight or journey.
When Will I Get My Results?
Our turnaround times vary based on your chosen test package.
Please note that result turnarounds may vary by clinic location, so kindly refer to the times stated on your chosen location booking page or confirmation email:
- Same Day test results are sent out on the same day of the test, at 6pm.
- Next Day test results are sent out the next day after the day of the test, at 6pm.
- Express FTF test results are sent out within 2-5 hours from when the sample reaches the laboratory.
Please Note
Travel regulations are subject to change. You should keep up to date with the Government’s advice about travel and find out about your destination’s requirements, including any countries you are passing through if you have a flight transfer.
Please refer to travel guidelines on the Gov.uk website and the relevant authorities of your destination if you are unsure of their requirements.
Covid Testing FAQs
There are three possible outcomes for your COVID-19 test.
- Negative – Your coronavirus (COVID-19) test result is negative. You likely did not have the virus when the test was done.
- Positive – Your coronavirus test result is positive. This means that you probably have the virus.
- Unclear – Your coronavirus test result is unclear. It is not possible to say if you had the virus when the test was done.
For more information on the result possibilities for your test, please see our information page on your possible results here.
PCR test: PCR testing is considered the “gold standard” in SARS-CoV-2 detection. This test actually detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms. The test can be done at any of our centre locations. Turnaround time varies from 2-3 days range to as little as 24 hours. All of our centres offer same day tests as well as options for those that have a little more time on their hands.
Antigen Test (frequently referred to as a rapid test): This test detects protein fragments specific to the Coronavirus. Turnaround time for results is usually very quick and, in some cases, results can be reported within 15 minutes.
We are currently offering testing for Hong Kong, Singapore, Jamaica and Japan with our fully UKAS accredited ISO15189 Test Package.
When booking this test, your sample will be sent to a fully accredited laboratory suitable for travel to countries which require an ISO15189 certification. You will receive your results the next day at 11pm guaranteed.
If you would like to schedule an appointment, or are travelling to any of the above countries, feel free to book online or give us a
call on 0121 392 7342 and a member of our team will assist you.
Whilst we are on the UK Government list of approved COVID-19 Test providers, we do not currently provide testing services for countries listed on the PanaBIOS list.
Please refer to the Africa CDC website for information on how to book a test which fulfils your travel requirements should you need this.
Please do not book an appointment if you are currently displaying Covid-19 symptoms. Please refer to the NHS website for more information on testing when displaying symptoms.
