Gov’t Sets Highest Tariff for Rapid Test Antigen-Swab
Ministry of Health has set the highest tariff limit for the Rapid Test Antigen-Swab examination of Rp250,000 for Java Island and Rp275,000 for outside Java Island.
This decision is stipulated in Circular Number HK.02.02 / I / 4611/2020 issued on 18 December 2020.
The Antigen-Swab Rapid Test is a way to detect the presence of genetic material or specific proteins from the SARS CoV-2 Virus. The test is carried out for people who intend to travel domestically with a validity period of 14 days.
In order to ensure its safety, rapid tests must be carried out by competent health workers from health care facilities and with operational standards.
Ministry of Health’s Secretary of the Directorate General of Health Services Azhar Jaya said that the determination of the tariff limit aims to eliminate price disparity for the Antigen-Swab Rapid Test in health service facilities.
The tariff, he added, is set following a joint discussion between Ministry of Health and the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) based on the results of surveys and analyzes at health service facilities.
Meanwhile, Deputy for Supervision of Security and Defense at the BPKP Faisal said that the determination of the highest tariff limit had been carefully considered according to the components and business processes, starting from sampling, sample processing, to medical waste management.
In addition, other elements including human resources which include pathology specialists, health workers who take sample and process it, personnel who make certificates, consumable costs such as reagents, coveralls, and administrative costs are also taken into account.
Faisal also expressed belief that the tariff set is quite affordable for the people, adding that the tariff rate only applies to people who carry out swabs at their own request, not for health service facilities that receive grants / assistance for tools / reagents from the Government. (PR of Ministry of Health/UN) (EST/EP)
