The Plenary of the National Assembly approved this Tuesday in the third and last debate the bill 752, through which the importation, commercialization, distribution and use of self-applied tests for the detection of Covid-19 is authorized.
It was known that the initiative was approved with 43 votes in favor, 4 against and 0 abstentions.
The objective of the project is to provide citizens with an alternative so that they can immediately take a test to detect covid-19 without having to expose themselves to long lines or pay large sums of money.
The tests are specifically aimed at asymptomatic people and those in close contact with those infected with covid-19, who, if positive, must undergo a second test at fixed points of the Ministry of Health (Minsa) or other authorized centers, such as private clinics that have the certification.
Pharmacies will have as a protocol to register the data of the person who will use the test, which will be registered on a platform that must be implemented by the Government Innovation Authority (AIG), in coordination with the Gorgas Commemorative Institute.
According to the document, the tests will not be considered for the issuance of disability certificates, until they are validated by a qualified professional.
In addition, it is prohibited to advertise rapid tests to detect covid-19 to the public.
Deputy Kayra Harding, proponent of the bill, explained that the bill seeks to regulate the import, marketing and distribution of tests, “now we have the legal tool so that Panamanians can go to a pharmacy, supermarket, meet the requirements and have these reliable, effective and efficient tests”.
