COVID-19 PCR Testing by Rite Aid and Quest Diagnostics

In order to help Rite Aid consumers identify and stop the spread of COVID-19, Quest Diagnostics and Rite Aid have formed a partnership to provide access to high-quality COVID-19 molecular testing (polymerase chain reaction or a similar nucleic acid amplification test). 
 
“The gold standard for accurate COVID-19 testing is PCR and other molecular diagnostic techniques. Through our partnership with Rite Aid, we will be able to provide COVID-19 testing in more American areas. 
 
In addition to being a national leader in COVID-19 testing, Quest is the top provider of diagnostic information services in the entire world. Since March 2020, the company has conducted more than 69 million COVID-19 molecular testing. 
 
Through the partnership, more than 2,350 Rite Aid and Bartell Drugs locations now provide access to Quest PCR testing, either through drive-thru lanes or the addition of at-home specimen testing kits from stores without drive-thrus, doubling the availability of PCR testing for adults and children older than two years old. Both choices demand that an appointment be scheduled via the Quest website. Individuals will be able to access Quest Diagnostics‘ results electronically via the MyQuest website and mobile application. 
 
At https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing, customers can schedule to pick up a COVID-19 PCR testing kit with at-home specimen collection or schedule observed drive-thru collection. From there, they will be directed to request a test through Quest’s consumer-initiated test platform QuestDirectTM. Customers of Bartell Drugs can go to bartelldrugs.com/covid19-testing.  

Rite Aid and Quest Diagnostics

According to Karen Staniforth, Chief Pharmacy Officer at Rite Aid, “when new variations spread throughout our communities, testing remains a key tool as we continue to support our communities in the fight against COVID-19.” “Identifying COVID-19 infection enables people to receive the necessary care while assisting in halting the disease’s spread. We are pleased to work with Quest to bring testing to all of our stores, making it simple for our consumers to access. 
 
Cathy Doherty, Senior Vice President, Regional Businesses, Quest Diagnostics, adds, “As people continue to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals and families need access to convenient, cost-effective, and high-quality diagnostic testing in order to engage in activities more safely and responsibly.” The gold standard for trustworthy molecular diagnostic assays is PCR.

The technologies used in molecular diagnostic testing include PCR and other nucleic acid amplification procedures. These antigen tests are carried out in a lab, as opposed to at-home tests. NAAT is the “gold standard” for detecting SARS-CoV-2, according to the CDC, and in some circumstances, they can be used to validate an antigen test result. Customers should talk to their doctor about the test results. 
 
Customers can still purchase quick, over-the-counter at-home antigen COVID-19 test kits at Rite Aid locations in addition to the molecular tests. Visit riteaid.com for more details on the COVID-19 test alternatives offered by Rite Aid. Additionally, Rite Aid still offers COVID-19 immunizations and boosters to qualified customers. By going to https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/scheduler, customers can schedule a COVID-19 vaccination. 
The oral drugs Paxlovid and are available at all Rite Aid locations.