For RT-PCR test reports within 24 hours, one needs to pay Rs 2200: Assam Government

The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction or RT-PCR test done to detect the presence of novel coronavirus infection is still the most credible examination in people’s minds. While the new Rapid Antigen Test kit provides results within minutes, people continue to opt for the RT-PCR which takes up to 72 hours for generation of reports.

People in Assam have been demanding for the Microbiology labs to fast-track the process and disclose results sooner. The state government has moved to provide a fast-track option.

Principal Secretary to Govt of Assam’s Health & Family Welfare Department Samir Sinha has issued a letter that comes into effect from September 1, 2020.

There letter states, “It is hereby decided that in case a person who undergoes COVID-19 RT-PCR test in a State Government facility wants to have the test result on a fast-track basis within 24 hours of collection of the swab sample payment of Rs 2200/- will have to be made to the Government.”

It is worth mentioning here that the tests are done in Assam for free. Samir Sinha adds in his letter, “However, no payment will need to be made in cases where COVID-19 RT-PCR test is declared in the normal time frame of 48 to 72 hours.”