BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – A state-run monoclonal antibody therapy treatment site for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 or considered high risk if infected has opened at Kiwanis Island Park on Merritt Island, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced today. The location has the capacity to serve more than 300 patients per day, and will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Kiwanis Island Park is located at 951 Kiwanis Island Park Road, Merritt Island, 32952. To make an appointment, visit patientportalfl.com. Walk-ins are also being accepted at this time.
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, to support Governor DeSantis’ initiative, 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 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.
