Health MEC ensures free Covid-19 testing at public institutions
According to Ramathuba, all public institutions are able to assist residents test for Covid-19 barring taking the specimen of the patient.
POLOKWANE – The Department of Health has ensured that all public institutions, including those in rural areas provide Covid-19 testing for free.
The test at a private institution ranges between R850 and R1 000, and the MEC for Health, Dr Phophi Ramathuba says the department is there for those who cannot afford private medical care. According to Ramathuba, all public institutions are able to assist residents test for Covid-19 barring taking the specimen of the patient.
You might also want to read: Indigenous herb trade booms in Limpopo
Unfortunately, only patients who suspect they have Covid-19 and fit the criteria will be tested and residents who wish to test for travel purposes, will not be tested at a public institution. “We need to reserve our much-needed resources for those who genuinely require them. Only patients who are showing symptoms or fit the criteria that has been set aside by the department will be tested.”
Ramathuba says public institutions do not have the facilities to test the specimen will have to be sent to the nearest facility. “We have testing facilities at the Pietersburg Provincial and Mankweng Hospitals that are currently being used to do the actual tests. It is difficult to give an estimation of the number of tests that can be done in a 24-hours, as we use various machines that can take various numbers of specimen at a time, and the duration varies from machine to machine.”
The department is working to ensure that residents receive their test results within 48 hours.
Ramathuba has urged residents to make use of the facilities they have, and to not spread the virus if they suspect to have contracted it.
“We are still spreading the same message, sanitise your hands regularly, maintain social distancing and wear a face mask. Stay at home and proudly chase away anyone who comes to visit because your life is at risk. The numbers continue to increase and they are now the names of people we know and people we love. Protect yourself, if you can not do it for others,” she said.
