Ontario government to allow symptomatic COVID-19 testing at pharmacies

CHCH has learned the Ontario government will allow symptomatic testing at pharmacies. 

Officials say tests could get underway as soon as this week and that the program is free, voluntary and open to any willing pharmacy in the province. 

According to a memo sent to Shoppers pharmacists, up to 138 Shoppers locations have approved to conduct asymptomatic COVID-19 testing and testing for symptomatic individuals could start as soon as Wednesday. 

The testing will involve on-site PCR COVID-19 swab tests and a drop-off program for specimens collected at home.

According to a document from Loblaws, which owns Shoppers Drug Mart, staff will not be allowed to swab symptomatic patients outdoors as an added safety measure. 

The Ministry of Health said it expects pharmacies to perform specimen collection in a dedicated space, with time between tests to allow for cleaning and social distancing. It also said it expects pharmacies conducting symptomatic testing to have lots of signage warning all customers that it is taking place.

Other Canadian provinces allow asymptomatic testing at pharmacies, but Ontario appears to be the first in Canada to allow people with symptoms.

The Ministry of Health official said the province will soon set up a web page listing pharmacies participating in the program.