DC is launching a new initiative to provide residents with COVID-19 treatment over the phone at no cost, thanks to a collaboration with a health technology company.
Through the program, District residents 18 years or older with a positive test result for the infectious disease who are at a higher risk for severe conditions — old age, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, being a smoker, etc. — can access Paxlovid following a telehealth consultation.
Paxlovid is an oral medicine that is used in the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in individuals 12 years and older within five days of developing symptoms.
The medication is known for shortening the length of symptoms and preventing the patient from developing more severe symptoms or getting hospitalized.
In order to receive Paxlovid free of charge, eligible DC residents are encouraged to fill out a questionnaire and make a request for a consultation on the phone, which will be provided by Color Health in five to 30 minutes.
After the person is confirmed to be eligible for the treatment during the telehealth visit, they can opt for home delivery or pharmacy pick-up.
DC Health warns that the service is not intended for medical emergencies.
Click here to request a telehealth consultation for the Paxlovid treatment against COVID-19.