To ask the Minister of Health to detail the average waiting time for a COVID-19 test in each Health and Social Care Trust.

Testing for Covid-19 in Northern Ireland is delivered via two routes. Firstly, the Health and Social Care (HSC) laboratories and the NI Scientific Advisory Consortium, (Pillar 1). Secondly, the National Testing Programme (NTP) managed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in London (Pillar 2).

HSC Trusts have indicated that routine tests for patients and tests for symptomatic HSC staff, and for symptomatic family members causing staff to isolate, conducted through Pillar 1 are usually undertaken within 24 Hours (excluding if requested on a Sunday when it will ordinarily be undertaken the next day).

Testing under Pillar 2 is managed through DHSC London and booked using the online portal or by calling 119. DHSC has advised that data on how long on average it takes a person to secure a test, from their first attempt until they are successful, is not captured. Once a test subject is successful in obtaining a test slot, tests are available on the same day as booking or the following day depending on what time the person accesses the booking system.

The National Testing Programme is currently experiencing an exceptionally high demand due to a number of factors such as the return of schools. Anyone who tries to book a test and is unable to do so, or who is offered a location or time which is not convenient, are encouraged to please wait a few hours and then try again.