Getting tested and treated for the flu and strep throat became much easier today in Omaha. It's now as convenient as a trip to the grocery store.
Hy-Vee, Inc., in collaboration with the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Pharmacy and Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Mich., is one of the first pharmacies in the United States to offer customers a rapid-diagnostic influenza or Group A Streptococcus test.
Hy-Vee stores in Omaha and Papillion, Neb., are among 60 sites throughout three states that will have pharmacists trained to administer these tests, the results of which are available shortly after the test is given. In addition to the testing, pharmacists also will be able to fill prescriptions to treat identified illnesses, if needed, under strict protocol set by prescribing physicians.
The tests are part of a research study conducted by UNMC and Ferris State and are available to Hy-Vee customers who quality for the program. Participants must be at least 19 years of age and exhibit symptoms consistent with influenza or strep.
Other restrictions apply, such as the hours the tests are available at some pharmacies. Customers are urged to contact their Hy-Vee pharmacy if they are interested in either test.
During the study period, the tests will be administered without charge to customers with a voucher, which can be obtained at the pharmacy.
Community pharmacists like those at Hy-Vee are ideally suited to test and treat these illnesses quickly, professionally and cost-effectively, said UNMC's Donald Klepser, Ph.D., principal investigator on a National Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation grant to administer the program and study the results.
"People may not realize how many individuals come to the pharmacy first for treatment when they experience these symptoms. This allows those customers to expedite the diagnostic and treatment process in one location, without waiting to see their primary care physician," Dr. Klepser said.
Michael Klepser, Pharm.D., a pharmacist and infectious diseases specialist at Ferris State (and brother of Donald Klepser), agreed, noting that people commonly self-treat for a day or two before going to the doctor. However, if a visit to the pharmacist is more accessible and convenient, people may not wait as long and treatment can be accomplished more quickly and effectively.
The timing of treatment is the key factor in stopping the flu, said Alan Jensen, M.D., the prescribing physician for the Hy-Vee sites.