WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — All Hy-Vee pharmacies now offer test-to-treat COVID-19 services using the COVID-19 antiviral, PAXLOVID, to help treat mild-to-moderate cases, the company announced Tuesday.

Earlier this month, the FDA authorized state-licensed pharmacists to prescribe PAXLOVID to eligible patients ages 12 and older, with certain limitations.

In order to be prescribed PAXLOVID, patients must test positive for COVID-19. Select Hy-Vee pharmacy locations offer rapid PCR COVID-19 testing (by appointment only) with same-day test results. All Hy-Vee pharmacies offer over-the-counter, at-home COVID-19 tests, which may be available at no cost, depending on medical coverage.

Under the Biden administration’s ruling, each individual covered under private insurance or Medicare Part B can currently receive up to eight free at-home COVID-19 tests each month.

After receiving a positive COVID-19 test result, patients will be screened by a state-licensed Hy-Vee pharmacist to determine their eligibility for PAXLOVID. COVID-19 antiviral patients are required to wear a mask when in the store. To assist with the screening process, patients should provide the following to their local Hy-Vee pharmacy:

• Date/proof of positive test result.

• Electronic or printed health records less than 12 months old, including the most recent reports of lab blood work for the pharmacist to review for kidney or liver problems.

• A list of medications they are taking, including over-the-counter medications. This list will be used to screen for drugs with potentially serious interactions with PAXLOVID.

It is recommended that patients begin COVID-19 antiviral treatment as soon as possible, and treatment must begin within five days of when symptoms begin.

COVID-19 antivirals are free with most insurances. Certain restrictions may apply for Medicaid recipients.

In order to receive PAXLOVID, patients must have a prescription from a health care provider or state-licensed pharmacist. PAXLOVID may only be used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in individuals ages 12 and older with positive results of direct COVID-19 viral testing, who are at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19, and for whom alternative COVID-19 treatment options authorized by FDA are not accessible or clinically appropriate.