Doctors warn Covid swab shortage could lead to “devastating” impact

Leading British doctors have warned the government that the country’s shortage of Covid swabs could have a “devastating” impact on patient care in hospitals. With the growing number of Omicron cases, thousands of people are struggling to access lateral flow tests. Meanwhile, supply issues are expected to last yet another fortnight.
The British Medical Association’s chairman, Dr. Chaand Naipaul warned the current system for ensuring doctors and medics to receive the vital kits was “not working”. He warned thousands of medics were unable to turn up for shifts because they could not get tested "at a time of acute workforce shortages and winter pressures”. He called on ministers to prioritise NHS employees for access to swabs.
Dr. Nagpaul said, “Being unable to get the tests means staff may not be legally allowed to work and at a time of acute workforce shortages and winter pressures this could be devastating for the care that can be given right across the NHS. For example, if a key worker is isolating and needs to have a negative PCR or lateral flow test on day six and seven, and cannot get access to them, they will not be able to return to work.” He added, “The rapid spread of the Omicron variant has no doubt had a massive impact on demand for lateral flow test kits and PCR tests, however, it is vital that the promised new supply of kits are offered to key workers such as health and social care staff as a priority.”
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Sajid David warned in a letter to MPs that supplies would likely be “constrained” for another fortnight because of the “huge demand” for tests. He hinted that vulnerable patients, such as care home residents and staff, would be prioritised for deliveries of lateral flow tests.
It is feared that Covid swab shortages will exacerbate the problem and lead to many needlessly having to spend time away from their frontline roles.