Covid New Jersey 2023: COVID-19 Information Hub · Order COVID-19 Test Kits · How To Quarantine · Vaccine Appointments · Test To Treat
Source: ASPR.gov
While vaccines remain the most effective way to prevent COVID-19 infection, there are also treatments available for people who are infected with the disease. These treatments may help individuals avoid severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
In March 2022, a nationwide Test to Treat initiative was launched, which aims to help people quickly access lifesaving treatments for COVID-19 at little to no cost. The Test to Treat initiative is available at thousands of locations nationwide, including pharmacy-based clinics, federally-funded health centers, long-term care facilities, and community-based sites. In May 2022, the program was expanded to include federally-supported Test to Treat sites, which reach vulnerable communities. Test to Treat partners include some of the nation’s largest pharmacy chains.
Individuals can be tested, treated, and prescribed treatment for COVID-19 by their own health care providers (including telehealth) and other sites of care. Through the Test to Treat initiative, individuals can be tested for COVID-19, see a health care provider (either on site or through telehealth), receive a prescription for an oral antiviral treatment (if they are eligible), and have the prescription filled—all in one location.
First, patients are either tested on site or can bring in a positive test result from another testing site or an at-home test. Then, COVID-positive patients will meet with a qualified health care provider (either on site or through telehealth) who will determine whether the individual is eligible for the COVID treatment pills (Paxlovid or Lagevrio). If an individual is eligible, they will receive a prescription and can have that prescription filled on site.
State-licensed pharmacists may also prescribe the oral antiviral Paxlovid to individuals who meet certain requirements.