Testing for coronavirus may happen faster in Indiana. Eli Lilly says it will use its labs to test for the virus, adding to the state’s testing capabilities and making testing available for more people. Lilly is also piloting drive-thru testing, so people won’t have to get out of their cars and have extended contact with other people to be swabbed.
Lilly also announced Wednesday that they would do all of the testing on their own dime.
“This is one contribution we can make to help slow the spread of coronavirus in our community, and this testing will be entirely free.” said David A. Ricks, Lilly’s chairman and chief executive officer.
Lilly will use its specialized research laboratories to analyze samples taken in Indiana healthcare facilities, including nursing homes and emergency rooms, said a news release.
Lilly and the Indiana State Dept. of Health will work together to maximize the impact of broader testing.
“As the global COVID-19 pandemic has intensified, Lilly has redirected efforts to help solve critical issues – including potential therapeutics, diagnostics and testing,” said Daniel Skovronsky, M.D., Ph.D., Lilly’s chief scientific officer and president of Lilly Research Laboratories. “Lilly’s scientists have been working day and night for several weeks to implement and validate this testing approach, and access or produce the chemical reagents that are in short supply across the country. Lilly’s lab meets the required certifications to conduct testing, and we’re optimistic in our ability to help accelerate testing.”
President Trump has been talking about how public-private partnerships would help in making sure people can be tested.
“We know the magnitude of the impact that advances by Lilly can have on how we diagnose and treat Hoosiers and people worldwide, and we’re grateful for Lilly’s commitment to help accelerate solutions,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box.