Shopping centres with Dis-Chem stores are transforming their parking areas into drive-through COVID-19 testing stations across the country.
The local pharmacy group has decided to offer this new service as a response to the ever increasing and urgent need to test more locals for COVID-19.
With South Africa’s coronavirus cases at 1 749 including 13 deaths as of April 7, additional testing options could not come at a better time.
The total number of COVID-19 tests conducted to date is 58,098, the department said.
“It is imperative to ramp up testing capacity to ensure accurate tracking of outbreaks and transmission,” Dis-Chem said to BusinessTech.
This new initiative is part of Dis-Chem’s efforts to support the government and residents during this tough time. Offering an additional testing option will go a long way to alleviate stress and pressure in other areas as well.
Those taking part in the testing will not even need to leave their cars, ensuring limited exposure. Operating hours will run from 9am to 4pm on weekdays.
Each site will have a full team of fully trained and registered medical staff with all necessary personal safety equipment on hand. Anyone may get tested and all results will be logged with the NICD.
Currently, testing sites at Centurion Mall, Olympus, Fourways Mall and Blu Bird Centre are all up and running, with others soon to be added.
Each test costs R850 with results being delivered within 24 to 48 hours.
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