PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A Hillsboro Walgreens has been chosen as the first rapid COVID-19 testing location for the pharmacy chain in Oregon. The new drive-through testing site can return test results in a day.

Governor Kate Brown said this was a big step forward for the state. She said we need more of this type of testing to come online before the state can start to reopen businesses and schools once again.

“One step at a time, we are making progress towards the day when we can begin to reopen our communities and safely return to public life,” said Governor Kate Brown in a statement. “I’d like to thank Walgreens for their partnership in selecting Oregon for one of its first rapid COVID-19 testing sites in the nation.”

Walgreens pharmacists will oversee drive-through testing using an “Abbott ID NOW rapid COVID-19 testing instrument,” something that’s already being used in other cities, and can return test results within 24 hours, according to a release from the governor’s office. The testing site is located on Tualatin Valley Highway.

Patients must make an appointment before driving through for testing. In order to schedule an appointment, patients must complete an online health assessment and meet both federal and state eligibility standards for testing.

“I think it’s great that it’s finally happening,” said Julie Krom from Portland. She and other teachers spent the afternoon lesson planning at the park. They’re happy more coronavirus testing is coming online in Oregon, with the hope it will contribute to the safe reopening of schools in the fall.

“I think it’s super exciting,” said Susan Nelson. “It’s a step in the right direction and it gives us all hope.”

“I try to protect my family and my father is going to start radiation soon for cancer, so we are really, definitely trying to keep him safe,” said Krom. “So the peace of mind is very important, I think.”

“Everyone would feel better in the fall to know that there would be testing and the antibody testing — just all around more availability would bring peace of mind,” said Rhonda Walters of Happy Valley.

These teachers look forward to the day when they can meet with their students once again in a classroom.

“I think at this point in time, we’re all trying to be as patient as we can, so one day at a time, so forward progress is good news to me,” said Krom.

Pharmacists will administer the tests outside. Patients will not need to leave their cars to complete the self-administered tests. To find out if you are eligible for a Walgreens test and appointment at the Hillsboro location, click on Walgreen’s online health assessment found here. CDC testing standards, as well as Oregon Health Authority criteria can also be found online. For those who qualify, testing will be provided for free, according to the governor’s announcement.

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