Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the opening of two new monoclonal antibody treatment sites, one in Polk County and one in Manatee County.
Each location has the capacity to serve more than 300 patients per day and both will be open 7 days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The newest monoclonal antibody treatment sites are located at:
Church at the Mall 1010 East Memorial Boulevard Lakeland, Florida 33801 Hours: 7 days a week, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Manatee Memorial Hospital Complex 206 2nd Street East Bradenton, Florida 34208 Hours: 7 days a week, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monoclonal antibody treatments can be prescribed by health care providers to individuals 12 years of age and older who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at high risk for severe illness and hospitalization.
However, at Governor DeSantis’ direction, there is currently a standing order in Florida signed by the State Surgeon General that allows patients to receive this treatment without a prescription or referral if administered by an eligible health care provider. Such referrals are not required at any of the State of Florida monoclonal antibody treatment sites and treatments are available at no cost to patients.
The antibodies help the immune system recognize and respond effectively to the virus. According to the treatment guidelines, they should be administered as soon as possible after diagnosis.
By providing access to these treatments at these new sites, Governor DeSantis is alleviating demand on hospital resources and further making sure that Floridians have access to all potential treatments that can help them recover from COVID-19.
Governor DeSantis and the Florida Department of Health continue to encourage Floridians to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Find out where the vaccine is offered HERE.
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