CVS’s COVID-19 self-swab test kits expand into Sarasota

CVS has announced the addition of 30 new COVID-19 self-swab test sites across Florida, including three stores in Sarasota.

“These new sites will utilize self-swab tests and deliver on the company’s commitment to establish 1,000 locations across the country by the end of May,” according to a corporate press release issued Thursday.

The new locations, which will provide and monitor the self-swab testing on site include:

• 4301 Bee Ridge Road.
• 2811 Clark Road.
• 3709 N. Tamiami Trail.

CVS executives say the goal is to test 1.5 million Americans monthly, “as part of comprehensive efforts to help slow the spread of the virus,” the company said.

Patients must register in advance of picking up a test at CVS.com beginning Friday to schedule an appointment. Patients will be required to remain in their vehicles while they are directed to the drive-thru window for pick-up.

A test kit, along with instructions, will be provided at that time and the self-test must be performed on site as a CVS staff member observes the test to ensure it is done properly.

Tests will be collected after administered and will be sent to an independent lab for processing. Results can be expected in about three days.

Larry J. Merlo, CVS president and CEO, said customers can pick up the tests in the pharmacy drive-thru lanes and the company’s effort “represents an important milestone in our response to the pandemic.”

The locations were chosen based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Social Vulnerability Index.

The SVI tracks census variables including poverty, lack of access to transportation and crowded housing “that may weaken a community’s ability to prepare for and recover from hazardous events like natural disasters and disease outbreaks,” the company said.