Want PCR Or Antigen At The West Papua Hospital? Free!

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

JAKARTA - West Papua is still providing free PCR and antigen swab tests for traveling residents at their Regional General Hospital.

The Director of the West Papua Regional Hospital, Dr. Arnoldus Tiniap in Manokwari, explained that he would begin to be tightened again regarding travel requirements due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in a number of areas. However, the PCR test is still free from the government-owned health facility.

"People ask whether the examination is free, yes, if anyone wants to come, our PCR test is free, especially now that the economy is still recovering," said Tiniap, Wednesday, August 10, quoted from Antara.

In accordance with the Circular Letter (SE) of the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, one of the conditions for traveling domestically is to get a booster, and if not, you must attach a negative PCR/antigen result.

Previously, domestic departure requirements were sufficient with proof of a second dose of vaccine, but with this change there has been an increase in the demand for PCR/antigen test services.

"Indeed, examinations had decreased because the requirements were relaxed, now with the rule of the third dose there is an increase in people coming for examinations," he continued.

In every submission for PCR/Antigen examination at the West Papua Hospital, the President Director said that the public is advised to vaccinate.

"If someone wants a vaccine, it's even better because everything is available at the hospital, if the vaccine is complete, of course it will also be easier to travel," said Tiniap.

Data from the West Papua Health Office on vaccination achievements until August 10, 2022, namely at the first dose of 64.57 percent or 514,856 doses, the second dose of 46.84 percent or 373,485 doses, and the third dose (booster) only 14.13 percent or 112,675 doses.