RICHMOND, Va. -- The Virginia Department of Health is partnering with Walgreens to offer rapid COVID-19 testing across the Commonwealth at no cost.
Four Walgreens locations, including one in Richmond, will offer the Abbott BinaxNOW rapid antigen test for free through Wednesday, Dec. 30.
“We are pleased to announce this public-private partnership that will help ensure increased access to COVID-19 testing at no cost for some of our most vulnerable communities,” said VDH Public Health and Preparedness Deputy Commissioner Dr. Parham Jaberi. "The testing locations selected represent communities that lack a fixed testing location or have higher rates of vulnerable populations.”
Initial Walgreens COVID-19 testing locations include:
· Collinsville, 3590 Virginia Ave
· North Dinwiddie, 26036 Cox Rd
· Richmond, 4845 Laburnum Ave
· South Boston, 3220 Halifax Rd
The locations will operate drive-thru COVID-19 testing where Walgreens pharmacy teams will oversee the patient’s self-administration of the COVID-19 test, where test results will be processed at the pharmacy and provided within 24 hours.
The VDH says testing locations may be expanded after January 1, 2021, pending the availability of additional federal funding.
"VDH encourages the use of these tests for individuals who are symptomatic, those who have been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, those at high risk of illness or complications and essential employees such as educators, childcare providers and healthcare providers," said a department spokesperson.
The COVID-19 testing will be available by appointment to adults and children age 3 and older who meet screening criteria.
Appointments can be made here.
