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It turns out that Medichecks is sourcing the test from
The Doctors Laboratory (TDL) in London. Ironically TDL may have added the test recently due to an email request. It's unknown what happened to Medichecks original source. Whatever made them raise their quoted price from £199 to £285 is disappointing if not a reasonable action. £285 seems too expensive.
TDL originally quoted the test being available at £160, but they still go by the 'broker' rule (i.e. doctor knows best). There will probably be a way around this. One potential possibility (to be confirmed) is testing through
emed. They are a small group of doctors based in a UK hospital who are allowing people online 'help' for £20 a year plus £15 for each 'consultation'(?). If they agree to be the TDL referrer, that would make the price around £195. None of this is recommended since it's unknown if they will agree yet.
The minimum price possible seems to be around £124 (That is what Sheffield Childrens Hospital charge everyone (last years price). If through the NHS, it's up to the Dr to meet the charge if they want)
Also, TDL have been contacted to ask about the testing guidelines, since it seems more than sending out a plastic container seems needed by most labs. TDL have their own labs, but they said they are outsourcing the urine test from a "specialist genetic testing centre"
Any new information or feedback on this is welcome. The aim being to have a UK source for testing without a Dr at the cheapest price.
As a thought, perhaps another potential scenario someday would be trusted sources being given referral status, perhaps with a (e.g.)$10 contribution added to a BO/Halitosis research/help/awareness fund, as an idea.
In the USA this isn't an issue since the Denver lab (when operating) allows anyone to test freely with no obstacles to overcome. The Arkansas lab also allows people to test but it is unclear if they allow people to test direct. They are the lab who accepts Mayo Clinic samples.
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