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New bill would allow people to test for COVID-19 at local pharmacies

LOCUST, N.C. — Pharmacies in North Carolina could play a big role in getting North Carolina back to work.

The COVID-19 health committee is working on a bill that would allow pharmacy drive thrus to administer coronavirus tests, antibody tests and vaccines once they’re developed.

The antibody test is a new test that lets people know if they have antibodies from the virus.

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State Rep. Wayne Sasser is part of the committee and he told Channel 9 that pharmacies could help hundreds of people very quickly.

“You don’t have to call in to make an appointment, you walk in the drug store, they give you what you need and you’re on your way,” he said.

He said the antibody test could be used to help determine whether it’s safe for individuals to return to work.

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Pharmacies would have to meet all federal and board requirements.

It is still being written and could be presented to lawmakers next week.

That bill would also allow for testing at traditional locations like doctor’s offices and health departments.

>>Watch the video above to see how the plan would work at our local pharmacies.