ITV GP Dr Hilary Jones is calling on everyone to take a free test at home ahead of what could be the worst winter on record for the NHS. The British Medical Association (BMA) has warned of an oncoming crisis in hospitals, surgeries and clinics in the months ahead.
A spokesman said: “Health, care, and public health services across the UK are bracing for the worst winter in their history. There are record numbers of patients waiting for care and treatment.
“Flu season and the high burden of COVID-19 cases across the UK is causing strain on health services and leading to the devastating reality of crippled emergency departments.”
Testing at home relieves pressure on the NHS by freeing up time at pharmacies and surgeries – as well as in NHS clinics and labs. Dr Hilary , said: “The findings by the British Medical Association show that we should be doing everything we can to support our beloved NHS. Self-testing is a key part of this – it empowers us to take our health in our hands, and allows us to make informed decisions on when we should lean on health services.
“Beyond the pressures of winter illnesses, we should test for a myriad of health issues. By doing so, we can then reduce the pressure our essential services are facing. Of course, if your symptoms are urgent you should contact the appropriate healthcare authorities e.g., 111 or 999.”
Newfoundland is giving away free health MOT test bundles this winter. With NHS appointments scarce and private health MOTs costing up to a £1,000, these tests can detect critical conditions such as bowel cancer and kidney failure early, for free.
The free at-home health MOT kits include seven tests for Bowel Health, Thyroid, Vitamin D, Kidney Health, Iron Deficiency, Menopause and Male Fertility, all with a retail value of £67.
Michael Hodnett, Co-founder of Newfoundland said: “As reports claim the NHS is set to see the worst winter on record, we want to do our part in helping the nation take control of their health, save NHS time and potentially save lives.
“With nearly half a million free health tests available through convenient pop-up locations and an exclusive online bundle there has never been a better time for the nation to take their health into their own hands”
Get your free Newfoundland health MOT kit at https://www.newfoundland.io/products/health-mot