Shortage of chemicals leads to delays in blood tests

Patients are experiencing delays in routine blood tests due to a shortage of chemicals.

The Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group say a problem with NHS supplier Roche is the reason why GP practices are not able to meet demand for tests currently.

A spokesman for the Lincolnshire CCG said: “Unfortunately the problems being experienced by NHS supplier Roche are not fully resolved and there is still a temporary shortage of certain chemicals that is affecting the availability of routine blood tests carried out by GP practices, although our GP practices can still process clinically urgent tests.

“We understand this is frustrating for patients, and we are working hard with our partners locally to resolve this as quickly as possible. 

“This issue is not in the practices’ control and they are having to rearrange appointments.

“Please remember to be patient and kind to practice staff.”