CEO SHCC chairs meeting to reduce cost of PCR test

KARACHI: The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sindh Healthcare Commission(SHCC), had conducted a key stakeholder's meeting of hospitals and laboratories conducting COVID-19 PCR tests in Sindh province. 

The representatives of all major hospitals and labs participated in the meeting. The plan was to discuss the reduction in the cost of PCR tests to provide relief to the general public. 

The CEO, SHCC, said that the situation had changed from 2020, and now the lab infrastructures and supply chain are well established, which should reduce the tests' operational cost.

The costing data was shared with participants, and they were asked to provide their input and concerns.  

The participants deliberated on the range of cost depending on materials and kits used as a wider variety is now available. It was mutually agreed that the costs of RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Test being conducted at different laboratories and hospitals should be realistic, thereby transferring the benefit to patients in the immense public interest.  

The meeting was conducted in a participatory and friendly environment, and all stakeholders assured their cooperation in adjusting the cost of the RT- PCR and Rapid Antigen Tests.