Starting this weekend, 39 CVS pharmacies in Virginia are now offering self-swab testing at their drive through windows. We tried one out.
Making an appointment online was quick and easy. My husband and I don’t have any COVID-19 symptoms, weren’t referred by a doctor, and don’t have any pre-existing medical conditions. However, we were able to get a test because he’s a nurse and as a reporter I’m a first responder. Law enforcement, residents of nursing homes, or caregivers of the elderly also qualify.
Click here for more information and registration.
The testing was done at the drive-through pharmacy window. We were given a bag with a swab, vial and directions. Someone walked us through swabbing ourselves as they watched behind a glass window.
We swabbed each nostril, spinning the flexible stick around for 15 seconds. Then we put the swab in a vial, returned that to a plastic bag, and handed it back to the pharmacist.
We were told results would take two to four days.
CVS is charging health insurance for the tests, but also offering them for free to those who aren’t insured.
There are several participating stores in the Richmond area, Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads and Fredericksburg. There are also participating stores in Charlottesville, Roanoke, Lynchburg and Radford.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
