DOH-RITM approves Lanao del Norte COVID-19 testing lab

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Sep. 14 (PIA) -- The Department of Health-Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (DOH-RITM) has approved the COVID-19 Testing Laboratory of the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte.

After complying with the necessary requirements, DOH-RITM has given the provincial molecular biology laboratory a license to operate with a perfect score of 100%, a Proficiency Test Result for SARS-CoV-2 Detection by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

Provincial Governor Imelda ‘Angging’ Quibranza-Dimaporo was happy and relieved to know of the approval after months of preparations to comply with the strict requirements of DOH-RITM - from building construction, purchasing of state of the art medical equipment and machines, coordination and cooperation with various offices and agencies concern, and series of training of personnel tasked to operate the laboratory.

The project of establishing a COVID-19 Testing Laboratory was due to the necessity of detecting real-time results of the PCR, a confirmatory test to determine persons positive or negative from COVID-19. 

With this essential laboratory now operational, it will help advance the interest of the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte in curtailing the spread of COVID-19 by early detection through testing of suspected individuals and isolating them for appropriate medical treatment.

The said COVID-19 Testing Laboratory is the only Molecular Biology Laboratory in Northern Mindanao solely financed by a Provincial Government. 

When the Provincial Government received the Bayanihan Grant to Provinces, the Governor immediately heed the call of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and diligently used a portion of the fund to establish a COVID-19 Testing Laboratory.  The remaining were utilized for COVID-19 related activities to help the province.

Dr. Neal C. Rana, Head of Northern Mindanao TBRC RT PCR played a vital role in the preparation and application process by sharing his expertise with the Provincial Government through constant engagement with the Governor and the Department Heads. 

Also, the Department Heads were actively involved in the project by making sure that all instructions are followed and done right on schedule for the Governor greatly considers the importance of time to win the fight against COVID-19.  (PIO-LDN)



Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)

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