CVS Pharmacy® Launches Enhanced Flu Testing and Treatment
As flu cases continue to rise across the U.S., CVS Health® (NYSE: CVS) has announced enhanced flu testing and treatment options at approximately 1,600 CVS Pharmacy® locations in select states. These improvements aim to better serve communities dealing with elevated flu and COVID-19 cases.
CVS Pharmacy locations in 37 states now offer a new 3-in-1 combo test that allows patients with flu-like symptoms to be tested for Influenza A, Influenza B, and COVID-19 using just one swab. This new testing method streamlines the diagnostic process, enabling patients to receive a quicker, more efficient assessment.
Additionally, CVS has simplified the scheduling process for test and treat appointments through its digital scheduler available on CVS.com and the CVS Health app. In states where pharmacists are authorized to both test and treat for flu and COVID-19, patients can now be tested, assessed, and potentially prescribed antiviral medications in a single visit. Participating states include California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
“Timely access to care and treatment is critical with illnesses like influenza and COVID-19,” said Jinali Desai, PharmD, MBA, MPH, Vice President of Pharmacy Health Services for CVS Health. “CVS Pharmacy’s array of testing and treatment options allows us to be with our patients every step of the way. From immunizations to symptom evaluation to prescribing medications for those who are eligible, our trusted pharmacists offer convenient and accessible care when patients need us most.”
The cost for a pharmacy-administered flu and COVID-19 test is $29.99, while the pharmacist assessment costs $45, regardless of whether a prescription is provided. Patients can use their HSA or FSA funds to cover the assessment fee. Prescription medication costs and copays will depend on the patient’s insurance coverage.
For those who prefer to test from home, CVS offers several at-home flu and COVID-19 testing options. These tests, which range in price from $12.99 to $24.99, can be purchased online at CVS.com or in retail stores across the U.S. Patients who test positive at home and need treatment can request a pharmacist evaluation through the CVS website or app. If clinically appropriate, a prescription may be provided. Pharmacist evaluations are available during evening and weekend hours, offering greater flexibility for patients.
CVS is also committed to offering a wide range of wellness products and services to support patients in managing their health. “Through our clinical pharmacy care offerings and extensive selection of over-the-counter wellness products, we help people with all their health needs,” added Desai.
In addition to testing and treatment, CVS Pharmacy continues to emphasize the importance of immunization in preventing illness. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at CVS Pharmacy® and MinuteClinic® locations nationwide. The updated 2024-2025 flu and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for people aged six months and older to enhance protection against the most prevalent virus variants.
For patients aged 65 and older who received the updated COVID-19 vaccine in the fall of 2024, a second dose may be given six months after the first. Those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may also be eligible for this additional dose. This means that individuals who received their first dose in September or October 2024 could be eligible for another dose in March or April 2025.
MinuteClinic also provides sick visits where patients can be tested for flu, COVID-19, and strep throat, if eligible. Both walk-ins and scheduled appointments are accepted at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations. The company’s digital vaccine scheduler reflects available appointment times at these locations.
CVS Pharmacy aims to make health care more accessible by offering several delivery options for prescriptions, including same-day and 1-2 day delivery services for eligible prescriptions.
By expanding its testing, treatment, and immunization offerings, CVS Health is helping communities better manage flu and COVID-19, ensuring patients have access to essential health services when they need them most.
About CVS Health: CVS Health® is a leading health solutions company that reaches millions of people across America through its local presence, digital channels, and dedicated colleagues, including over 40,000 healthcare professionals. Whether managing chronic conditions, staying on track with medications, or seeking affordable wellness services, CVS Health works to improve access, lower costs, and support patients every step of the way.
