On May 5, the Kroger Health healthcare division announced the launch of Abbott’s BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test, an over-the-counter SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test that has received FDA Emergency Use Authorization for self-testing without the need for a prescription from a healthcare professional. This express test allows users to receive results within 15 minutes, in the comfort of their own home as it does not require laboratory processing. The test is designed for individuals with or without symptoms or other epidemiological reasons to suspect COVID-19 infection.
“The U.S. has made tremendous strides in the battle with COVID-19, with vaccination efforts proving successful, yet testing continues to be a critical pillar in the fight against this public health crisis,” said Colleen Lindholz, president of Kroger Health. “We know Americans will greatly benefit from having access to affordable, at-home testing to support diagnostic needs, and Kroger Health is grateful that we can continue to be part of the solution by providing access to diagnostic testing as well as administering COVID-19 vaccines.”
BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test
This product is the same test that has been used by healthcare professionals nationwide since August 2020, and is now be available over-the-counter for purchase at retailers across the country. This 15-minute self-test can be completed anytime, anywhere using a simple nasal swab and easy to follow step-by-step instructions.
This test, which is packaged with two tests per box, is indicated for serial testing. Simply test yourself twice within 3 days, with at least 36 hours between tests. By testing more frequently, you may detect COVID-19 more quickly and reduce spread of infection.
“This virus remains unpredictable, which is why we can’t let our guard down on testing, especially as people get back to seeing more of each other in a variety of spaces like workplaces, schools, and family events,” said Andrea F. Wainer, executive vice president of Abbott’s rapid and molecular diagnostics business. “Abbott will continue making its BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test available in more national retail settings like Kroger so that people can quickly and easily find the test and get back to living their pre-pandemic lifestyles with more assurance.”
COVIDCare+
Kroger still provides its COVIDCare+ offering, including vaccines, viral and antibody testing, and resources. In collaboration with the Biden administration, and as part of the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program for COVID-19 Vaccination, Kroger Health’s multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals has administered more than 3.5 million vaccinations. For example, visitors of The Little Clinic can a get various COVID-19 testing solutions, including diagnostic viral, antigen tests and rapid antibody tests (also available at Our Family of Pharmacies).
“Keeping over-the-counter tests available at home can allow individuals to be prepared when it matters. Individuals can feel more confident about attending events, visiting loved ones, or traveling when using this test for COVID-19 screening. Kroger Health also plans to add at-home COVID-19 antigen testing to its employer-focused health and wellness solutions. Employers or organizations can use this test to facilitate regular, low-cost testing as a tool to re-open workplaces. For inquiries regarding this offering, please visit the COVIDCare+ partner page for more information,” – the company said.
