San Jose de Buenavista, Antique - The Antique Provincial Board has passed a resolution urging hospitals to suspend the mandatory reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing for patients, except in cases where they exhibit symptoms or have had high-risk exposure within 14 days prior to admission.
According to Philippines News Agency, Board Member Egidio Elio, who authored the resolution, explained in an interview that the decline in Covid-19 cases in Antique and the less severe nature of infections justify the suspension of RT-PCR testing for patients and their companions. The resolution, unanimously approved during their regular session on Monday, aligns with the Department of Health (DOH) Memorandum Order 2022-0013. This memorandum, issued on January 14, 2022, prioritizes RT-PCR testing for those developing severe disease, such as older adults and individuals with comorbidities, and makes testing optional for asymptomatic individuals. Elio emphasized the financial burden of mandatory RT-PCR testing, which costs PHP1,800 per person, and suggested that these funds could be better used for other patient needs, especially for those from financially constrained backgrounds. He also noted the increased resistance against Covid-19 due to vaccination efforts. Elio expressed hope that the provincial and district hospitals in Antique would adhere to the suspension, and mentioned that private hospitals could also consider suspending RT-PCR testing based on the DOH memorandum.