For its National HIV Testing Day event on June 27, Walgreens will provide free testing for HIV and other STDs at a record 550 stores. No appointment is needed to get the tests, which typically provide results in 20 minutes or less, at any of these participating Walgreens stores.
The retailer, which has been working with Greater Than HIV, a public information initiative of KFF, since 2011, has provided more than 82,000 free HIV tests through the in-store program, including more than 15,000 self-tests distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This program is instrumental in reaching people in community settings, making HIV prevention and treatment options more equitable, accessible and convenient,” said Rick Gates, Chief Pharmacy Officer at Walgreens in a statement. “In addition to providing services to help prevent and treat HIV for more than 40 years, Walgreens invests in training its pharmacy team members to address the specific challenges faced by people living with HIV — including confidential medication counseling, information on prevention options and how to apply for financial assistance programs.”
Rapid test manufacturers Abbott Laboratories, BioLytical Laboratories, ChemBio Diagnostics and OraSure Technologies donated tests to support this year’s program, with ChemBio Diagnostics and Diagnostics Direct donating rapid syphilis tests.
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