Ministry Of Health Sets Rapid Test Prices, Most Expensive IDR 150,000

Illustration (Angga Nugraha / VOI)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) issued a regulation regarding the highest limit for independent rapid test antibody examinations. This rule must be a benchmark in carrying out a rapid test.

The regulation is set forth in a circular number HK.02.02 / I / 2875/2020. This circular letter states the price or highest tariff for an antibody rapid test of IDR 150,000.

Director General of Health Services of the Ministry of Health, Bambang Wibowo, said that this rule was made because rapid test prices varied, and made the public confused. With this rule, society will not be confused and can prevent certain individuals from seeking profit.

"The varying prices for carrying out the rapid test cause confusion in the community. Therefore, the government's participation in the antibody rapid test is needed so that people do not feel that they are being used for profit," Bambang said in a circular quoted by VOI, Tuesday, July 7 evening.

The circular letter was copied to the Minister of Health, Secretary General of the Ministry of Health, and the Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). In it are listed four important points, one of which is related to pricing.

Then, the examination may only be carried out by competent health workers who come from health service facilities.

At the last point, it contains notification to all health facilities to follow tariff limits. "So that health service facilities or parties providing antibody rapid test examination services can comply with the highest tariff limits set," said a circular.

Head of the Media and Public Opinion Division of the Ministry of Health, Busroni confirmed this. However, he did not explain in detail the reasons and when the contents of the circular letter came into effect.

"It's true (contents of the circular), from the Ministry of Health," said Busroni to VOI.

With this circular, all health service facilities must apply the highest tariff. "Yes, Rp. 150,000 in health facilities," said Busroni.