American Airlines to offer more Covid-19 testing options
The US-based airline is expanding its preflight Covid-19 testing programme with new self-administered and more in-person testing options to make travel easier and safer for its customers
Customers can now order an Abbott BinaxNOW™ Home Test through telehealth provider eMed. These 15-minute, self-administered tests are supervised virtually by an eMed Certified Guide 72 hours before a customer’s return to the US.
“We want customers to focus on planning their trip to reconnect with family or unwind after more than a year at home, without the added stress of figuring out where and how they will get the right test,” said Julie Rath, Vice President of Customer Experience at American. “Our partnerships allow them to choose the testing option that works best and is the most convenient for them when they book their flight.”
Creating a safe and seamless travel experience
“Deploying eMed services for international travel marries reliable Covid-19 testing with a convenient digital-point-of-care platform to create a safe and more seamless travel experience,” added Dr Patrice Harris, eMed Co-Founder and CEO. “We're proud to be partnering with American to give their customers peace of mind throughout their trip and confidence in independently verified results. Clearer skies are ahead thanks to innovations like this.”
Customers can order a set of six tests for US$150 directly from eMed or pick up individual home tests at select pharmacies. The cost includes the supervision of an eMed Certified Guide who will join the individual during a telehealth visit to lead them through the testing process. The test result is available in as little as 15 minutes and is documented in Abbott’s complementary NAVICA™ app available on smart devices.
For customers wanting an in-person test before departing the US, American is expanding its partnership with CareNow nationwide, allowing customers to schedule a test at one of CareNow’s nearly 160 locations when travelling to select destinations on American.