PCR Test Birmingham

May 2021 | Reading time: 4 minutes

VIVO Clinic Birmingham offers in-clinic PCR tests with a same-day results option.

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide refuse travellers entry into their countries without a negative PCR test result.

If you are planning a trip abroad, you are probably already aware that you cannot take COVID-19 tests from the NHS. The government has prohibited the use of free NHS tests for travel purposes.

At our Birmingham clinic, the PCR test service has been devised especially for travel purposes. If your PCR test result comes back negative for coronavirus, we will provide you with a fit-to-fly certificate, completely free of charge.

While our in-clinic PCR test at Birmingham come with choices for same-day results and next-day results, we also provide at-home PCR tests for travel.

What is a PCR test?

A polymerase chain reaction or PCR test is the most reliable COVID-19 detection method. This test uses swab samples from the nose and throat to determine the presence of coronavirus RNA.

What is the difference between PCR test and RT-PCR tests?

Both tests are used to detect the presence of COVID-19 RNA in nose and throat swab samples. However, certain country’s entry requirements specify the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or RT-PCR test. A negative result from an RT-PCR test is accepted by all countries requesting a PCR test result. Nonetheless, a PCR test result is not accepted in lieu of an RT-PCR test.

At VIVO Clinic Birmingham we provide RT-PCR tests, as it covers all the bases.

How reliable are PCR tests?

Since the start of the pandemic, many methods have been tried and used, including PCR tests. Since then, PCR tests have come to be considered the benchmark for reliable COVID-19 diagnosis.

Why do I need a PCR test or RT-PCR test to travel?

Almost all the countries globally have made PCR tests a legal entry requirement as the COVID-19 pandemic persists. Negative results from PCR tests and RT-PCR tests are now the prevalent precautionary measure.

Which countries require PCR tests for entry?

As mentioned above, almost every country require travellers to produce a negative result from some form of a PCR test. You can take for granted that at least all popular travel destinations will have a PCR test as an entry requirement.

We have curated an up-to-date list of countries’ entry requirements on our travel advice page.

When should I book the in-clinic PCR test?

That is entirely dependent on your travel destination. The most common requirement is a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel.

This may not be the case in your destination country. Please refer to the government’s website for the latest travel information.

At VIVO Clinic Birmingham, we provide same-day as well as next-day results services for PCR tests for travel.

Will you provide me with a fit-to-fly certificate?

Yes, we will. If your RT-PCR test indicates that you are negative for COVID-19, we will provide you with a fit-to-fly certificate fully stamped and attested by our laboratory experts.

Our fit-to-fly certificates come free of any additional fees.

Is your laboratory regulated?

Yes, of course. Our laboratory is registered with the Care Quality Commission, certificate number: CRT1-4708702735.

How are PCR tests done at your clinic?

The in-clinic PCR test is straightforward. Trained professionals at our Birmingham clinic will guide you through every step of the sample collection process.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yhrLu6whq8

Can I find out about a previous infection with PCR tests?

No, a PCR test or an RT-PCR test can only detect current infections.

To check whether you have had a previous COVID-19 infection, you can try our at-home immune response test.

What if my PCR test result comes back positive for COVID-19?

You must make the necessary arrangements to delay your travel. Furthermore, you must begin self-isolating immediately.

We will not provide you with a fit-to-fly certificate if you test positive.

If you require any guidance during this difficult time, we recommend you contact the NHS, either by phone by dialling 111 or online at https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19.

Other than the in-clinic RT-PCR test, you can also book the following travel-related tests at VIVO Clinic Birmingham:

• Day 2 and Day 8 Tests
• Day 5 Test to Release