In the US, pharmacists are allowed to use COVID-19 tests

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has called the expanded testing coverage as a key response to COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, on April 8 a manual allowing licensed pharmacists to order and apply FDA-approved COVID-19 tests was published. The manual has been published in accordance with the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act.
“Allowing pharmacists to order and apply COVID-19 tests for their patients may easier the access of all Americans for testing. Pharmacists play a vital role in providing convenient access to important health and information services” said HHS Secretary Alex Azar.
Through its president, Steve Anderson, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores praised this innovation: “We look forward to continuing to work with leaders at all levels of government to remove barriers for patient care, so that pharmacists and pharmacies are fully authorized and ready to serve the nation”. Since the start of COVID-19 pandemic, NACDS has urged government agencies, including Congress and governors, to provide pharmacies with the ability to provide care for patients affected by COVID-19, and to play a messenger role in other diseases that could have weakened attention during the pandemic.

Source: www.hhs.gov; drugstorenews.com