New York City is expanding COVID-19 testing and treatment efforts, launching mobile sites where testers can be prescribed medication to treat COVID-19 right after receiving test results.  

The vans are some of the first in the nation that offer both testing and prescribed treatment for those who qualify. 

“We've had lots of patients to come and they've had symptoms and they've tested,” said Prince Achoakawa, physician assistant at the new mobile sites. “Today we had four patients out of the four that tested positive we were able to prescribe the medicine for three of those patients.” 

The treatment most prescribed, Paxlovid, is an oral medication that you can get if you test positive for COVID-19. All people ages 12 years and up are eligible for the antibiotic treatment. 

One primary care physician in the Bronx says that for eligible patients, not only can this medicine help you feel better, but can prevent potential trips to the hospital.  

“It can save your life but only if you take it fast enough,” said Dr. Ted Long. “Within 20-30 minutes, you can go from being tested to walking away with medication that could save your life.” 

Since its launch on June 30, Paxlovid has been prescribed to over 1,000 New Yorkers. The treatment is free and does not require proof of insurance or immigration to receive it.