Following changes to the government’s rules for overseas destinations last week, DirectorsTalk caught up with Marc Howells, CEO of Goodbody Health (AQSE: GDBY) to get his reaction:
Marc noted, “Goodbody Health welcomes the recent changes, as the Tourism industry was in desperate need of a lift. Brits heading to France will be delighted that entry rules have been relaxed from Friday 14th January for people who are fully vaccinated. However, the rules still require you to take a Covid test (and produce a negative result) within 24 hours of starting your journey to France.
In 2021, Goodbody Health conducted over 100,000 covid tests. We have been busier than ever with customers taking PCR, antigen and antibody tests in our large UK network of clinics and online. Our Fit to Fly certificates have provided real peace of mind for weary travellers whether they’re leaving or returning to the country.
Marc went on to explain the recent UK rule changes, “Inbound travellers to the UK will still be required to take a Covid test on or before day 2 of their arrival in the UK, but since the 17th January, it is now permissible to take a lateral flow test rather than a PCR test. Free NHS tests will not be accepted so Goodbody Health will continue to provide a much needed service. The rules for non-vaccinated travellers have not changed, meaning they will be required to take the pre-departure test while still abroad, and on their return enter self-isolation for 10 days, with PCR tests on days 2 and 8.”
Marc added, “Covid testing remains part of our overall offering. With our new company name, Goodbody Health, our vision is to be a leading retailer and distributor of diagnostic and wellness products and services and grow our existing established network of over 140+ clinics. We look forward to continue supporting the NHS, at a local community level, with our customer proposition ‘Know More – Live Better’.”
Goodbody Health is the parent company for its main brand name “Goodbody” and its trading subsidiaries “Goodbody Wellness Limited” and “Goodbody Botanicals Ltd”
Know More. Live Better. To provide healthcare testing services in the local community.
The Goodbody Health Group operates within the United Kingdom and Europe as a trusted distributor and retailer of quality, accredited wellness products and diagnostic services to provides a unique ‘frontline’ healthcare service in the local community and enable customers to manage their health care digitally.