Minnesota Test-to-Treat Sites Add On-Site Paxlovid Distribution

Statement

Governor Tim Walz today announced that this week, Minnesota's state-run test-to-treat sites will add the ability for patients to fill their prescriptions for Paxlovid on site. The addition of the pharmaceuticals to these state-run sites further streamlines the process for Minnesotans seeking treatment for COVID-19.

The testing, evaluation by a clinician and prescriptions themselves will continue to come at no cost to Minnesotans. The prescription medications will be available at the St. Paul-Midway community testing site beginning today, and at test-to-treat sites in Moorhead, Brooklyn Park, Duluth and MSP Airport on Wednesday, June 29. Find operating hours, locations, and appointments at COVID-19 Community Testing Sites .

"Minnesotans who need COVID-19 medication now have an even better way to get it," said Governor Walz. "By bringing these treatments to our testing sites, they're truly a one-stop shop for people who feel sick, need a test, and qualify for treatment. We continue working hard to make COVID-19 resources available to more Minnesotans, more easily."

"Today's expansion of our state-run test-to-treat sites does even more to make COVID-19 medication available to Minnesotans. By continuing to make this process easier and more seamless, we are hopeful that more people are able to access this critical tool for helping to prevent severe disease and keep people out of the hospital," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm. "Minnesotans who feel ill and are at high risk of severe COVID-19 should visit a test-to-treat site or speak to their health care provider to see if medication is right for them. We are grateful to our partners at the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy for their work to increase access to these medications for the people of Minnesota."

At community test-to-treat sites, Minnesotans can get tested for COVID-19 and, if positive and determined to be high-risk, receive a prescription for medication at the same time. Since opening earlier this month, the sites have prescribed medication to more than 580 Minnesotans.

All of the community test-to-treat sites will continue to test Minnesotans at no cost.

Minnesotans who test positive for COVID-19 via a rapid antigen test will be able to choose to be evaluated on site by a clinician and be given a prescription for the antiviral medication Paxlovid if it is deemed appropriate. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments are recommended at mn.gov/covid19.

Minnesotans seeking medication at community test-to-treat sites should be prepared to provide details of their medical history, particularly their current medications, to the on-site clinician. Only patients deemed high risk by the clinician will receive a prescription for Paxlovid.

COVID-19 therapeutics are not right for everyone, but they can reduce severe illness or risk of hospitalization among patients who are unvaccinated, elderly, or have other risk factors. Learn more about COVID-19 medication on the Treatments page at mn.gov/covid19.

The community test-to-treat locations join the existing 61 test-to-treat sites that are already operating statewide across Minnesota, mostly located at clinics or pharmacies with Minute Clinics. Minnesotans can find other test-to-treat sites using the federal government's Test to Treat locator . Some sites may require appointments.

Outside of the test-to-treat program, medications are available through Minnesotans' health care providers. Minnesotans who test positive for COVID-19 should reach out to their doctor or health care provider to see if treatment is right for them.

Where to find COVID-19 testing
Minnesotans have many COVID-19 testing resources.

Healthcare systems, clinics, pharmacies, local public health, and other private labs are offering free testing for Minnesotans. A continuously updated list of participating sites can be found at Find Testing Locations .
Under a Biden Administration order, insurers are required to cover the cost of up to eight at-home COVID-19 test kits per month for enrollees. Check with your insurance company about ways to get free rapid testing from pharmacies.
Minnesotans can order up to four at-home rapid test kits (eight tests) for free from the State. Visit Order your free at-home rapid tests .
Minnesotans can request up to eight free rapid at-home test kits (16 tests) per household at CovidTests.gov .
Under the Biden Administration's test-to-treat program, 61 Minnesota pharmacies and community clinics are conducting on-site rapid testing and prescribing anti-viral medicine for at-risk individuals who test positive. Find a list of participating providers at the federal government's Test to Treat locator .

When to Get Tested

Testing continues to be an important tool for preventing the spread of COVID-19.
To keep COVID-19 from spreading, you should use testing if:
You have symptoms of the virus.
You have had close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
You are returning from international or domestic travel.
You attended a high-risk event.
You work in a setting that has regular, close contact with many people.
Minnesotans can find up-to-date guidance on when to get tested at MDH: COVID-19 Testing .

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