DOH Lowers Price Cap on Antigen Services and Test Kits
The Department of Health (DOH) has set a new price cap for COVID-19 Antigen Testing Services and Antigen Rapid Diagnostic Test Kit.
Based on the DOH Circular No. 2021-0323-B, the price cap for antigen testing service has lowered to P660 from P960. While the antigen rapid diagnostic test kit will be P350 from the previous P500.
The new price for testing services includes a 350 price cap for a test kit, P250 worth of operational cost (other related laboratory supplies and overheads), and P60 as a 10-percent allowable mark-up.
In addition, the price cap for a self-administered antigen test kit was also set at P350.
“Antigen rapid diagnostic test kits subsidized or donated by the DOH and other government agencies to DOH licensed public and private health facilities and clinical laboratories shall be provided at zero cost to individuals,” as stated in the circular.
The DOH-licensed health facilities and clinical laboratories may have prices lower than the prescribed price cap provided that the quality of services is maintained.
The updated price caps will take effect on February 20.
To file a report on hospitals, laboratories, and other facilities that charge prices exceeding the price cap, the public may contact Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau (HFSRB) at hfsrb@doh.gov.ph. (PIA)
