De Bourcy explained that pharmacies have worked out a concept to help execute rapid tests for Covid-19. However, the union still waits for the government to give the launch signal. The union president further conveyed that he was unofficially told that pharmacies will most likely receive a certificate that they can hand out to people who test negative.
If a rapid test should turn out positive, the person in question will be advised to quarantine and contact the tracing unit, which will take over procedures. Furthermore, they will be eligible for a PCR test to confirm the result.
De Bourcy also talked about the logistical challenge that pharmacies face if they want to contribute. For one, separate rooms are needed so that the rapid tests can be performed and analysed. Although a respective concept has been established, it remains unclear who will pay for the additional labour, as it will not be reimbursed by the government.
Pharmacists have also expressed their willingness to aid in the vaccination campaign. Although most of their infrastructures are not suitable for storing the Pfizer/BionTech or Moderna vaccines, they could provide people with the AstraZeneca jab if the government decides to resume rollout. In that case, people will get the vaccine themselves and take it to their general physicians for the injection.
