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PETALING JAYA: Playing his role in containing the Covid-19 pandemic, Bukit Gasing Assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran (pix) offers public coronavirus screening at a discounted rate of just RM 70.
The test using Rapid Test-Antigen Kits (RTK-AG) typically costs RM 150-180 in private healthcare facilities.
Rajiv said yesterday that as for the low-income residents of the B40 group in his constituency, the test will be subsidized and will cost only RM30.
He said the initiative that started exclusively for Bukit Gasing residents earlier this month is being rolled out to the general public to make the test accessible to everyone.
“We have purchased the same RTK-AG kits from the same supplier that supplies the Ministry of Health (MoH) and we are providing these kits to participating clinics. We have negotiated a decent bulk price that allows us to offer the test to the public at 70 RM. Doctors who perform the detection of Covid-19 with the RTK-AG kits are certified by the Ministry of Health to perform the test. We are still considering lowering the price. “
Rajiv said that it is understood that even the Ministry of Health has its limitations when it comes to testing, especially since its main focus is on those who are in close contact with those from Covid-19 groups.
“However, we have also heard of people who may have had a casual contact who do not undergo the test as they are not considered a close contact. Even those exhibiting Covid-19 symptoms but had no close contact with a Covid-19 positive patient were turned away from government hospitals because they did not meet the criteria for the test. What we’re saying is that those who want to get tested, or need to get tested, should be able to get tested at an affordable price, “he said.
Rajiv also said that the Ministry of Health is increasing the use of RTK-AG in evaluations due to its 90% accuracy rate and quick results within 15 minutes.
“I urge the Ministry of Health to embark on outsourcing screening to these clinics, which serve as additional resources as we fight a devastating pandemic. This would free up scarce and valuable resources in government medical facilities to focus on treating Covid patients, among other things.
“In addition to bringing affordable Covid-19 testing to the general public, this exercise provides an opportunity for general practitioners to participate in the war against Covid. It will also help them stay afloat, as many of these healthcare professionals have suffered financially since the MCO began, ”he said.
The assemblyman said that in order to register for the Covid-19 test offered by his office, the public must send detailed details via WhatsApp to 016 306 4104 for an appointment for the screening after successfully registering.
He said the tests will be done by appointment only and those wishing to make inquiries can also call the same number.
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