In this time of national emergency, I as a pathologist can not keep quiet on issues like mass testing. After all, laboratory testing is what we do best, not other doctors who have other specialisations and interests.
The push for mass testing has brought a proliferation of substandard test kits which many including non-medical people are getting hold of and performing themselves. Worse, DOH in violation of the Clinical Laboratory Act allowed other doctors to administer tests that they have no
expertise and experience in. This will create false results with possible catastrophic consequences for health and the economy.
I appeal to the DOH to rationalise the system and not allow itself to be pressured by panic and others’ self-interest.
I appeal to DOH to recognise the presence of other medical professionals in the private sector in molecular testing and make use of their expertise in training our techs in the COVID labs being set up.
Do not create a log jam by trying to control the whole process of lab accreditation. Be the judge . Don’t also be the prosecutor.
We can only get thru these trying times if we work together. Bayanihan spirit, right?
#Pathologists! Your vital partners in COVID19 Testing
