The Pamunkey Regional Library, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has begun distribution of COVID-19 rapid antigen at-home test kits at no cost.
Customers can pick up a virtually-guided Abbott BinaxNow COVID-19 Antigen Card Home Test from the library, use it in the privacy of their home and receive digital test results in 15 minutes. The program is designed to increase access to COVID-19 testing, especially among rural, remote, under-resourced communities, and other vulnerable populations.
“We are pleased to work with public libraries to provide another testing option for our community and to increase accessibility,” said Dr. Laurie Forlano, DO MPH, Deputy Director, Office of Epidemiology. “Testing continues to be important to stop the spread of COVID-19, particularly as we enter the holiday season when people gather.”
The at-home test kit uses the eMed digital platform. You will need a mobile device or computer to create an account and to join a virtual testing session with an eMed assistant who will guide you through the testing process. Once the test has been completed, you will receive a test result within 15 minutes, and eMed will report the results to VDH.
You can request a free test kit from any of their ten branch libraries by following their guidelines at https://tinyurl.com/prlcovidtest. VDH recommends that tests be used within two weeks to avoid expiration.
If you are feeling ill, please call your local branch library, email ask@pamunkeylibrary.org, or text them at 804-331-6726 to arrange curbside pick-up or send someone to pick up the test kit for you.
For more information, please visit the VDH’s library program webpage or email testinginfo@vdh.virginia.gov. Other testing sites/options can be found on the VDH testing locator page.