UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has set out the criteria for rationing coronavirus tests.
The need for “prioritisation” comes with demand for tests outstripping the system’s ability to provide them.
Hancock confirmed that people with acute clinical needs would be at the front of the queue, with care homes and NHS staff also priorities.
The Health Secretary added: “The testing capacity we have is valuable. And we must together prioritise it for the people who need it the most.”
Testing will also be targeted in outbreak areas and teachers will also be given priority.
Among the wider public, people in areas with high incidence will be given priority.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Hancock said testing capacity was at a record high 253,521 but “alongside this record expansion, demand has gone up too”.
He told MPs: “We need to prioritise the tests on those who need the most to save lives, protect the most vulnerable and make sure our health and care services and our schools can operate safely.
“Today we’ve published our list of where tests are being prioritised, setting out how we will make sure tests are allocated where they’re needed most.
“First, to support acute clinical care.
“Second, to support and protect people in care homes.
“Third, NHS staff including GPs and pharmacists.
“Fourth, targeted testing for outbreak management and surveillance studies.
“Fifth, testing for teaching staff with symptoms, so we can keep schools and classes open.
“And then the general public when they have symptoms, prioritising those in areas of high incidence.”
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