There is a general push for people to test more regularly throughout the winter, hence the increased testing capacities.
Since early 2021, 64 pharmacies have been offering a certified rapid testing service. However, the demand tripled since the introduction of CovidCheck on 1 November.
In the near future, pharmacies will also administer Covid-19 vaccinations.
Alain de Bourcy, the president of the syndicate of pharmacists, states they work from 8am until the evening. Often, the limits are just about reached, he continues, as such testing procedures require time, space, staff, and equipment.
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Apart from the material cost behind such tests, which can vary between 20 euros and 35 euros, pharmacies must reorganise their staff. However, pharmacies in the capital might have an easier time doing so than a rural pharmacy that has one pharmacist and two or three assistants.
From late December onwards, pharmacies will also administer Covid-19 jabs, as has been decided with the government. Pharmacies are now focusing on ensuring staff are fully trained to administer the vaccines.
The government hopes that this will ease access to the vaccine for many, given the ubiquity of pharmacies in the country. Various questions still need to be cleared up, though. How much room is needed, for instance, or what vaccines will be given: first jab, second, booster?
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