Covid-19 | Health Bureau strives to reduce NAT cost

In a written reply to lawmaker Song Pek Kei’s question, the Health Bureau (SSM) indicated that the SAR Government has been actively negotiating with third-party organizations to adjust the fee for Nucleic Acid Tests, and said they would continue to seek its reduction.
In her written question to the bureau, lawmaker Song expressed the belief that although the SSM reduced the NAT fee in response to the progress of the pandemic, the amount by which it has been reduced is still relatively low compared to other regions.
“Due to the cost differences in human resources and testing work between Macau and neighboring regions, the NAT fees [of these places] are not directly comparable, and the current testing fee in Macau has been reduced by more than 55% to MOP80. The government will continue to strive for reduction,” the bureau said in its response.
When asked if there would be any elderly-friendly anti-pandemic measures, the bureau said that relevant services were already available.
“There are more than 100 service points throughout Macau to help generate and print health codes for those in need,” the bureau said. It additionally noted that “there are seven in-home care service teams and six aged care facilities that provide support and services for the elderly and their families in need.” Staff Reporter