A new test site with a capacity for 800 daily tests has opened at National Taiwan University''s College of Medicine. The site offers PCR testing, as well as medication to treat symptoms, if any. Those who test positive in the PCR test will get a text message that contains a link for them to arrange a virtual appointment with a doctor, in case they need medicine for COVID.
This is the entrance and exit to the test station, where medical staff are gearing up to administer PCR tests. It’s the first day of opening, but no long queues formed here in the morning. There are two lines to go in, with designated areas for registering, testing and waiting. People with mild symptoms can also pick up medicine here.
Kao Jia-horng
NTU Hospital vice superintendent
At the registration point, the staff checks whether the patient needs medication for relieving symptoms. If they do, they will have a consult with a doctor, and they can pay for the medicine.
Patients can pick up a three-day supply of antipyretics, and medicine for coughs and runny noses for a total of NT$520. This COVID test site at NTU’s College of Medicine offers 400 appointment slots every day, with another 400 tests available for walk-ins, for a total capacity of 800 tests per day. In the future the test site could have an even bigger capacity.
Kao Jia-horng
NTU Hospital vice superintendent
If they test positive on the PCR test, the hospital will send them a text message. In that notice, there will be a link to make a telemedicine appointment. After the virtual consultation, we can give them medication.
Originally, only people in home isolation, home quarantine and self-health management who tested positive for COVID in a rapid test could make a telemedicine appointment to get diagnosed with COVID and obtain oral medication. Starting Wednesday, anyone aged 65 and up will be exempt from taking a PCR test as long as they take the test strip to a health center to get a medical assessment. If confirmed and eligible for COVID drugs, they can pick up a prescription on the spot, to not delay administering lifesaving medication.