Testing
The option to schedule COVID-19 testing appointments at CentraCare sites ended May 11, 2023. If you may have been exposed or suspect you have COVID-19, but do not need immediate care, we recommend self-testing.
At-home COVID-19 tests can be found at many local pharmacies, or retailers.
Vaccine
The 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine is available for anyone 6 months and older who wants protection from COVID-19. CentraCare will be following the recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health for this vaccine:
Vaccination is encouraged for everyone 6 months and older, especially for:
- Children under 2
- Children 2-18 years of age with risk factors
- Pregnant women
- All adults. Especially those at increased risk for severe infection and everyone 65 years and older.
To schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine:
- Call CentraCare Connect at 320-200-3200 to schedule an appointment.
- Schedule your vaccination online.
- Receive the vaccine during a primary care clinic visit.
Learn more about COVID-19 vaccination recommendations at the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Vaccine Access page. You are encouraged to call your insurance company to confirm coverage for the vaccine.
Treatment & Prevention
If you have tested positive for COVID-19, call 320-200-3200 to be screened for eligibility for a COVID treatment option.
Many area pharmacies have oral antiviral medications such as molnupiravir and Paxlovid available through a prescription from CentraCare.
FAQs About Antiviral Drugs
What are Paxlovid and molnupiravir?
Paxlovid and molnupiravir are oral antiviral pills that help treat COVID-19. They are a five-day treatment course that you can take at home. It is important to take the pills all five days, even if you start to feel better.
Who is eligible to receive Paxlovid or molnupiravir?
According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), you are eligible if you:
- Have tested positive for COVID-19 (PCR or antigen)
- Are within five days of symptom onset
- Have symptoms consistent with mild to moderate COVID-19
- Are not hospitalized due to COVID-19
- Are age 12 years and older for (Paxlovid) nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, or 18 years and older for molnupiravir
- Weigh at least 88 pounds
- Do not have a health condition or medication therapy that restricts you from having an antiviral medication; your health provider will help make this decision
- Are at high risk for severe illness
I'm a current patient who meets the criteria. How can I receive the antiviral drugs?
Please contact us at 320-200-3200 to be screened for eligibility for oral antiviral treatment. If eligible and prescribed, antiviral medications are available at a pharmacy.
I’m a current patient but tested positive for COVID-19 outside of CentraCare. How can I be considered?
If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19 with an at home/antigen test, please contact us at 320-200-3200 to be screened for eligibility for oral antiviral treatment.
I’m not a current patient at CentraCare, but I am eligible for this treatment. How can I make an appointment?
We recommend patients contact their current care provider to determine eligibility for these therapies, as it is important to review a patient’s health history and medications before prescribing.
If I’m told I’m eligible to receive an antiviral drug, can I take a few days to decide if I want it?
Paxlovid and molnupiravir need to be started within the first five days of symptoms to be effective. If you wait to see if symptoms progress, you may miss this window of time.
Will these treatments interfere with my other medications?
Paxlovid does have some significant drug interactions. A pharmacist will review your medications with you to make sure the antiviral drugs are still a good choice.
How much will these medications cost me?
The pharmacy may charge a dispensing fee to your insurance but there is no cost for the actual medication at this time.
Can I take these medications instead of getting vaccinated?
Paxlovid and molnupiravir are not substitutes for vaccination for people who can receive the vaccine and have an appropriate and expected immune response.
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