The Government Pharmaceutical Organisation (GPO) is currently organising a bid to find a company that can supply the government with 8.5 million antigen test kits (ATKs), under a special procurement programme run by the National Health Security Office.
The test kits are essential as they help authorities to identify and isolate potential Covid-19 patients, in order to prevent further contagion that could push the healthcare system beyond its limits.
The procurement project is closely supervised by the NHSO, GPO and Rajavithi Hospital, said GPO director Vitoon Danwiboon. He said the arrangement was intended to create checks and balances, and ensure fair competition among companies.
Companies which can offer kits that meet NHSO's and Food and Drug Administration's standards can submit their bids starting today. The GPO will thoroughly vet the bids and announce the winner shortly after.
In short, he said, the government is looking for reliable ATKs which can deliver results within 30 minutes. The ATKs are expected to be distributed later this month, according to the GPO director.
The FDA has approved 19 ATK brands, and they must be bought at hospitals or pharmacies, the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration said.