According to reports, Dis-Chem has introduced drive-through COVID-19 test sites in shopping centre parking lots this week. The drive-through test will cost R850 and results will be available in 48hrs.
Drive-through testing sites have gone live on Tuesday at Centurion Mall, Olympus, Fourways Mall and Athol Oaklands (Blue Bird) in Gauteng.
Other branches will start from Thursday 9 April, at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre and the Pavilion in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as Canal Walk in the Western Cape.
With the high influx of testing, Dis-Chem says it wants to be part of the ramp-up to support laboratories that may be under strain. They say delays due to testing capacity could affect accurate tracking of outbreaks and transmission.
“It’s crucial that South Africa can accurately predict the trajectory of this pandemic. With a greater testing capacity comes a truer picture of the spread of the virus in the country and we’re proud to be able to support the health authorities during such a challenging time,” said Lizeth Kruger, head of Dis-Chem Clinics in a press statement.
The drive-throughs will be open from 9am to 4pm on weekdays.
Testing will take place outside, from the comfort of your car, resulting in limited exposure for customers and staff.
Each site will be equipped with protective equipment for staff including face screens, gloves, masks, protective gowns and disposal equipment.
Here’s how it works:
- Customers will be directed to the entrance.
- Then to a registration point. Here they will need to fill out an NICD form, which includes asking for permission to make physical contact.
- Once completed customers will proceed to the payment point. It costs R850 per test.
- Thereafter the testing commences. Tests will be carried out by fully trained registered nurses. (All tests being used are the same as those of healthcare practitioners.)
- Results will be available between 24 to 48 hours after testing.
- All results will be logged with the NICD.
