CLEVELAND — On Thursday, Governor Mike DeWine expanded the COVID-19 testing criteria in Ohio, allowing for more people to be swabbed.
For months, kits had been rationed.
Those who were not hospitalized, or at high risk, were often not diagnosed.
But now, testing can resume for those who are suspected of having coronavirus. CVS, the nation’s biggest drug store chain, is stepping in to help.
“It’s definitely going to raise the number in every state of positive cases that are out there just because we’re testing more,” said Sarita Saade-Harfouch, regional director.
CVS will soon offer swabbing at 1,000 locations across the country.
In Northeast Ohio, 13 locations will go live on Friday. They were selected using a CDC social vulnerability index that took poverty, public transportation, and housing into account.
“This is not only helping reshape healthcare, but it’s helping us fulfill our purpose,” Saade-Harfouch said.
Patients at the store do the swabbing themselves outside under an employee’s supervision. Appointments are required and insurance is accepted. Those uninsured will be covered by the government.
“No patient is going to be refused,” Saade-Harfouch said. “No patient is going to have to worry about payment whatsoever.”
The tests then go to an independent lab and results return in three days.
On Thursday, Governor DeWine also announced pharmacists can order and administer coronavirus tests.The changes are likely to dramatically increase the number of people who now get them.
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