FAQs

How do I collect a blood sample?

Everything you require is provided with your SELFCHECK self-test kit, and all the components are the same quality you will find in hospitals. Each blood test kit contains two single-use lancets (single-use for hygiene reasons), and a soft plastic 'pipette' which has been specifically designed to collect the required amount of blood safely and accurately.

Here is a demonstration on how to use one of our blood test kits by one of our technical experts.

Why should I choose SELFCHECK?

Our medical self-test kits are assembled at our UK labs from hospital grade components, where we also develop new medical diagnostics for use in hospitals. Our scientists have been developing and manufacturing medical devices since 2005, and have the expertise to provide any technical help and advice you may need, right here onsite. So, when you contact us, you are likely to speak directly with an expert who knows exactly how your test works.

Are self-test kits an alternative to seeing my doctor?

No. Self-test kits aren't meant to replace traditional healthcare pathways but whether a positive or negative result, self-tests may help prompt you to seek help from your pharmacist or doctor sooner than you might have, and provide the first step towards a diagnosis.

Are SELFCHECK tests accurate?

Yes, the tests are registered medical devices and provide results as reliable as a doctor's test. All tests are CE certified for self test and professional use to the same standards as hospital laboratory tests.

Will my doctor trust a self test result?

SELFCHECK tests meet the same standards of reliability and regulations as hospital tests. Your doctor will be familiar with the chemistry used in your test. It is a good idea to take the instruction leaflet with you to your appointment.

Who is SELFCHECK?

SELFCHECK self test kits are assembled in the UK by medical device company JR Biomedical Ltd, and manufactured from the same high quality medical components used in clinics and hospitals. Our UK laboratories are certified according to an independently audited, internationally recognised medical device quality system (ISO13485:2016 for the design, development, assembly and distribution of medical diagnostics). We currently have a number of collaborative research projects with universities to develop new clinical diagnostics for use in intensive care units.

Can I get advice on my test result?

Full follow up information is provided with your test. If you have any questions on how to use your test or interpret your results you can contact SELFCHECK customer services directly. However, we are not allowed to provide medical advice, and current regulations state that we must encourage you to speak with your doctor before making any changes to your lifestyle or medication.

My test hasn't worked, what do I do?

Don't worry, you're in good hands. Our friendly, professional customer care team are eager to help.

In a study of 5,313 SELFCHECK users (March, 2021), 99.4% did not report any issues with their test. Nevertheless, we completely appreciate it can be frustrating if you do not get a result. But don't worry, we're always pleased to help! Just contact our friendly, professional customer care team and explain what happened. All batches of tests and components are manufactured to internationally recognised standards for medical devices (ISO13485:2016), and are tested before assembly at our UK labs, so it is exceptionally rare for any component to malfunction. As part of our quality assurance system we have regular meetings to discuss the performance of our products, customer feedback, and identify any improvements that can be made. We also have annual on-site independent audits of our quality assurance system.
We have found that by far the most common reason for a test not working is the user unknowingly interpreting the instructions incorrectly. Healthcare professionals are particularly encouraged to read the instructions carefully as there can be subtle differences in the way tests are used that are manufactured by different companies.

Do your tests give false positive and false negative results?

All doctors are aware that all medical tests, whether used at home or in the hospital laboratory, will give a small percentage of false positive or false negative results. Because we are all physiologically different, no one medical test can be 100% accurate for everybody.