KUALA LUMPUR – The public can now obtain Covid-19 Rapid Test Kit-Antigen kits (RTK-AG) and medical consultations for RM70, following efforts by Selangor assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran.
It is available at two clinics in Petaling Jaya performing these tests under his initiative.
“We have procured the same RTK-AG kits from the same vendor as the Health Ministry and we are providing these kits to participating clinics. We have negotiated a decent bulk price, thus able to offer the test to the public at RM70 each without subsidy,” said Rajiv.
“The doctors conducting the Covid-19 screening with the RTK-AG kits are ministry-certified to conduct the test. We are still looking at possibly bringing the price down lower if and where possible.”
He said that these test kits are manufactured by SD Biosensor, obtained through a direct negotiation process.
While the price of test kits in the Malaysian market hovers between RM150 and RM180 in private clinics, the reduction to RM70 can also be attributed to changing testing operation procedures.
“Usually, tests in government facilities especially will involve many staff members in full PPE suits. Now, one doctor will be enough to perform the test.”
Rajiv previously did a similar initiative for residents in his constituency of Bukit Gasing in Petaling Jaya.
Now, these RM70 RTK-AG tests will be expanded to everyone, and not limited to Selangor residents.
Those interested in getting tested can contact the initiative via Whatsapp 016-3064104 with their name, address, MyKad number, and contact number.
A date and time for the appointment will be set and the address for the clinic will be given.
“With 168 (Covid-19) clusters still active, and new ones still being uncovered, our government healthcare personnel are burning out having fighting the pandemic since March," said Rajiv.
“It is time for the federal government to engage any parties who are willing to help and expand mass testing by making testing affordable across the board – in private and public healthcare.
"They should be heading a coordinated nationwide effort involving all parties, regardless of politics, if we hope to bring down the infectivity rate anytime soon." – The Vibes, November 24, 2020
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