Objective To formulate expert consensus statements on hospital participation in population-wide specimen collection for COVID-19 testing, and to standardize specimen collection. Methods The draft consensus was developed based on foreign and domestic literature, relevant policies, practice manual and opinions of relevant experts, then discussion meeting and expert consultation were performed to revise the draft. Results Experts reached consensus on preparation before specimen collection, building collection site and platform, nursing workforce allocation, management of collection process, management and handover of specimens, medical waste management, support and supervision, and sub-sequent management. Conclusion The consensus is practical and scientific for population-wide specimen collection for COVID-19 testing.