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Walt Disney World reopened in early July with a focus on health and safety to protect their Guests and Cast Members. Now, Disney is offering Cast Members one more way to ensure they are staying healthy and safe: free COVID-19 testing. Read to see how this benefit for Cast Members will benefit Guests as well.
According to the website Disney Covid 19 Test, Walt Disney World Cast Members are currently eligible to receive free onsite COVID-19 testing.
Testing is currently available at the following location for Disney cast members, Operating Participant employees and family members. Family members are defined as spouses, domestic partners, parents, and children.
Testing for Cast Members and their families will take place at Disney Maingate Complex, located near Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
COVID testing is available Monday through Sunday, 7:00 am through 4:00 pm. Cast Members must create an account and register in order to make an appointment.
The website states, “If you receive an appointment, it is VERY IMPORTANT that you PRINT and bring your test voucher with you on the day of your test.”
The COVID testing for Cast Members will be self administered, with results available online in 3-5 days.
“Testing locations use a self-administered nasal swab test that allows you to swab your own nose while in your vehicle, supervised by trained medical personnel.”
The Actor’s Equity Union has asked for COVID testing to be available for its members since Disney announced it’s reopening plans.
When Walt Disney World originally began recalling Cast Members back to work, members of the Actors Equity Association were called back for rehearsals following the week of June 23rd.
On June 25, the union made a public statement asking for regular COVID testing for its members and the ability to wear a mask while on stage performing since they can not practice social distancing throughout their day. Disney responded by rescinding the recall notices for Equity members.
Shortly after Disney announced today they would be providing Cast Members with free COVID testing, the Actor’s Equity Association released a statement that they had come to an agreement with Walt Disney World, and the actors could return to work.
However, Disney has released a statement about this agreement, sharing the availability of COVID testing for Cast Members was not in response to the Union negotiations.
Whatever the reason is for COVID testing availability, this announcement is not only a win for Disney’s Cast Members, but it is also wonderful news for Guests who will soon see the return of live entertainment to the theme parks.
What are your thoughts on Disney offering free COVID testing to Cast Members? Let us know on Kenny the Pirate’s Facebook Page, or join our crew and continue the discussion!
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