NHI GM Says Decentralization of Diagnostic Services is Part of Way Forward

The new GeneXpert machine, with a four-cartridge model capacity, can be used to diagnose various types of viral and bacterial infectious diseases, and according to General Manager of the National Health Insurance, Doctor Ramon Figueroa, the grant from the Global Fund began a process of assessments and discussions, but the major challenge still lies ahead– that is to go through the tedious task of preparing all the paper and technical work that need to take place now, in accordance with Global Fund procedures. Figueroa said that COVID has had some negative impacts on some of the gains made.

Dr Ramon Figueroa

Dr Ramon Figueroa, General Manager, National Health Insurance

“We need to push harder, work faster, and most importantly, work together. One of the key strategic changes in the national response is the decentralization of services, making access easier for the populations at risk. Some of the key planned activities highlighted are as follows: support implementation of self-testing, procurement of dual test kits for HIV and syphilis testing to support immediate diagnosis and treatment among key populations, procurement of the GeneXpert machines and cartridges to support the decentralization of diagnostics for TB, and viral load testing to all treatment sites, providing access to services for persons closer to where they live and work.”