NHS Grampian begin testing Covid-19 samples
It's one of the first Scottish health boards to undertake its own testing.
Last updated 27th Mar 2020
NHS Grampian have started to undertake their own testing for covid-19.
This means they will not have to wait for samples to go to Glasgow for results.
Up to 160 samples can be examined per day, but they are aiming to increase this,
NHS Grampian’s consultant and service clinical director for medical microbiology and virology, Noha EL Sakka said: “There is an essential need, in order to manage this outbreak, for having prompt diagnostic technology.
“Prior to Monday we were sending samples to the reference lab and there is a high turnaround time and time is wasted on transportation – that has all been cut-off. It cuts down on work for the lab with packaging and also in terms of reporting results too.
“That is why we tried to streamline things and make the test available as quickly as possible and the process as simple as possible – it ensures we have a prompt and robust system for our patients in NHS Grampian.”