Health trade unions say the shortage of rapid antigen test kits across the country has led to delays in identifying COVID-19 patients and has caused delays in carrying out essential urgent medical treatment and surgeries.
The Academy of Health Professionals attributed the current situation to the Medical Supplies Division of the Ministry of Health not delivering necessary rapid antigen test kits to hospitals as requested.
The union also claims that due to this situation the conduct of rapid antigen tests was halted at several hospitals including the Colombo and Kandy National Hospitals, Ratnapura, Peradeniya, and Karapitiya Teaching Hospitals as well hospitals in Ampara, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa.
The Academy of Health Professionals also said they are surprised by the statement by the Media Spokesman of the Ministry of Health that the shortage of rapid antigen test kits can be covered by conducting additional PCR tests.
