The National Health Security Office (NHSO) will begin the second phase of its antigen test kit (ATK) distribution programme for high-risk groups on March 1, it was announced yesterday.
NHSO secretary-general Jadej Thammathataree said the programme will further expand people's access to Covid-19 testing, which the office hopes will ease their financial burden during the pandemic.
Eligible individuals will receive certified ATKs that are made by local companies, as part of the government's programme to spur domestic business activities.
Those wishing to receive free ATKs under the programme will first check their eligibility by doing a self-assessment on the Pao Tang mobile application. Those who are considered at most risk of catching Covid-19 can then claim their ATKs from over 2,000 pharmacies, clinics and nurseries nationwide.
Those who do not have access to a smartphone can contact the NHSO's 1330 hotline or access the website to search for nearby service sites.
"Each [eligible] individual will receive two ATKs -- one for the first day and the other for day 10," Dr Jadej said.
Participating pharmacies and/or other service units can claim up to 55 baht per ATK from the NHSO, he said, adding they must provide clear usage directions to users to ensure they know how to use the test kits and/or read the result properly, he said.