Cone Health Launched Pharmacy Flu Treatment Pilot
The health system has introduced a new testing and treatment model at two North Carolina pharmacy locations.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Healthcare
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Cone Health has launched a flu test-and-treat pilot program at select pharmacy locations to streamline patient care. This initiative allows residents to receive direct testing and treatment services at the pharmacy counter.
Why it matters
The program aims to alleviate capacity constraints at doctors offices and urgent care centers during periods of high influenza activity. By shifting care to pharmacies, the health system intends to improve access for patients.
The pilot program operates at two specific pharmacy sites, including the Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington and the Steven D. Bell Family Heart & Vascular Center in Greensboro.
The players
Cone Health
This is a major nonprofit healthcare system based in North Carolina that manages a network of hospitals and outpatient centers.
Alamance Regional Medical Center
This facility is a key hospital within the Cone Health system located in Burlington, North Carolina.
Steven D. Bell Family Heart & Vascular Center
This specialized center is part of the Cone Health network and serves as a site for the new pharmacy pilot.
The details
Patients can access both testing and treatment for the flu directly at the participating pharmacy locations operated by Cone Health. This model is designed to simplify the patient experience by removing the need for a separate clinical office visit.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Cone Health began the flu test-and-treat pilot program.
Market Landscape
This program aligns with the retail-based pharmacy care model expansion, a trend where health systems leverage pharmacies to offload demand from traditional clinical settings. It positions Cone Health to better manage regional patient volumes during peak illness seasons compared to competitors.
Patients in Burlington and Greensboro can now bypass traditional office wait times for flu care by visiting these specific pharmacy locations. This service provides a more direct pathway for receiving necessary treatment during high-activity flu months.
The takeaway
Healthcare systems are increasingly using pharmacies to reduce the strain on urgent care centers during peak season. Patients should check if their specific pharmacy location is participating before seeking treatment to ensure service availability.
Further reading
For more information on regional medical initiatives, visit the Healthcare section.
Live Poll
Would you prefer to get flu testing and treatment at a pharmacy instead of a clinic?
