Pharmacy stocks up on COVID-19 tests as Florida cases rise

On Jul 28, 2024

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SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida is experiencing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, with over 270,000 people testing positive this year according to the state’s COVID-19 tracker.

What You Need To Know

Florida is experiencing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, with over 270,000 people testing positive this year

In Seminole County alone, 662 cases were reported in June, compared to 271 in May

The virus is primarily transmitted from person to person through droplets made when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk

As cases climb, many well-known pharmacies are struggling to meet the demand for at-home COVID-19 tests.

Greenwood Pharmacy in Lake Mary, owned by Andy Kimmel, is managing to maintain a consistent supply of these essential tests. Unlike larger chains that receive weekly shipments, Greenwood Pharmacy orders and receives inventory on a daily basis.

“Their stock is warehoused and they get it once a week, so they may not have it at the time that somebody wants it. We order daily, and we get our inventory in daily. So it’s different—daily versus once a week,” said Kimmel.

In Seminole County alone, 662 cases were reported in June, compared to 271 in May. This increase in cases has driven up the demand for at-home COVID-19 tests.

“Flu season starts in the fall and goes up. Since the president has gotten COVID, sales have gone up. There’s no rhyme or reason, but I try to keep enough in stock,” said Kimmel.

As a locally owned pharmacy, Greenwood Pharmacy has the flexibility to tailor prices and meet the specific needs of its customers.

“Patients who use chain stores like CVS or Walgreens and can’t find their medication will find that prices at those stores are set by corporate, so they can’t change their prices. We can look at the price, see what it is, and change it, so we offer medications at a lower price than most others,” said Kimmel.

Kimmel added that it’s important to have at-home tests available due to the high demand.

“Normally, we go above and beyond. That’s what an independent family-owned pharmacy does. We give our patients these services that they can’t get someplace else or are not able to get someplace else,” said Kimmel.

Doctors encourage those who are feeling sick to stay home, wear a mask, and get tested.

The virus is primarily transmitted from person to person through droplets made when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk.