There’s much talk of the importance of a ‘COVID Vaccine Passport’ to make travel and event attendance possible. What does that involve?
Understandably, people are keen to enjoy foreign holidays, go on international business trips and attend major events in the UK. As restrictions ease, this could increasingly rely on what the media have dubbed a “COVID-19 passport”, currently only available in England.
What is the COVID-19 passport?
The NHS actually refers to it as a ‘Pass’, as it’s something you may need at home as well as abroad!
Usually, it’s a digital record of either your double dose of the coronavirus vaccine or a recent negative test result. Though you can also apply for a paper record of your vaccine history.
How would I use the COVID pass?
The different uses are undergoing various trials. However, it’s likely that the way the COVID Pass works will remain unchanged.
It provides evidence that you’ve had a second dose of the vaccine at least two weeks previously. If that is not the case, you can still use the digital version to prove you have recorded a negative test for the virus within the previous 48 hours.
This proof may be required to gain access to certain places and events in the UK. This concept is being tested as this article was written.
The COVID Pass is already important for some foreign travel, depending on the different rules in each destination. Also, you may be able to use a COVID-19 passport to avoid quarantine when returning from the list of countries on the Government’s Amber list later this summer.
You can download the NHS App from Apple Store or Google play
After you complete the setup you have access to your vaccination records.
How to get my COVID vaccine pass
If you’re aged over 16, the starting point is to download the NHS app on your phone. You also have the option to create a digital Pass on the NHS website.
This is not the same as the NHS Track and Trace App!
Also, don’t be fooled by scams and cybercriminals cashing in. Only use the official COVID Pass application systems.
You register on the app or website using your contact details and date of birth in the ‘GP Login’ area. It can make it quicker and easier if you have your unique NHS number to hand too.
You will then have a digital record of the COVID vaccine history your GP holds, which you can show to relevant authorities. This software can also record any negative PCR or rapid lateral flow tests you have completed in the past few days.
To get a paper version – which only shows your COVID Vaccine history – you will need to apply online or ring 119 for assistance.
How secure is the COVID NHS app?
Using technology in relation to your private medical history can be daunting! Please be assured it only links to your vaccine and test history.
The Government is currently looking at ways to expand the Pass to Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
If you have more questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to chat to our team of empathetic private GPS.
