HSE encourage online advance booking of COVID-19 testing
The HSE has extended its online booking system for COVID-19 tests to all its static COVID -19 testing centres. This means that people living in the vicinity of these 33 test centre across the country (with at least one available in every county) will be able to log onto the online system and book their COVID-19 test up to the end of the following day.
The extension of this online booking system to all HSE COVID 19 testing centres aims to make getting a test more convenient for people. People who have symptoms and/or are worried should call their GP and they can arrange a COVID 19 test at one of the HSE test centres. Those seeking a COVID 19 test also have the option to book an appointment themselves online for a test that day or the following day, or attend one of the test centres without an appointment and wait for a COVID 19 test.
By using online booking system this helps the test centre manage the numbers of people attending for a test at any time and minimises waiting times when arrive at test centre.
Test appointments for children under 16 can be booked using the online system.
Community Testing Centre, Castlesaunderson, Belturbet is open from 10am to 6pm daily.
Children under 16 can also attend a walk-in centre but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will need to give consent of the child to have a COVID-19 test and be present while the child is getting the test.
If your child has symptoms of COVID 19 or you are concerned about them you should contact your GP who can provide you with advice and can also refer your child for a COVID 19 test if necessary.
Emma Ball, General Manager, Primary Care Division, Sligo, Leitrim and West Cavan is encouraging people to avail of the online booking system. ”Given recent increased demand for testing, we are encouraging people to book their test online in advance as this will allow for the most efficient running of the test centre. The online system can adjust in real time to demand across each of the testing centres and will have some flexibility to increase or decrease appointment capacity if necessary. The HSE will monitor the demand for COVID-19 testing via walk-in, the online system and GP referral, and close contact test referrals on an ongoing basis.”
Book your COVID 19 test online is available at www.hse.ie