NEW LABORATORY. The Covid-19 Testing Laboratory at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC) which was formally opened on Monday (Aug. 3, 2020). Dr. Glenn Mathew Baggao, CVMC hospital chief, said they expect to be able to conduct tests on 300 to 400 specimens daily. (Photo by Vince Jacob Visaya)
TUGUEGARAO CITY – To step up the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC) formally opened its Covid-19 Testing Center with an inauguration ceremony on Monday in Barangay Carig Sur here.
Dr. Glenn Mathew Baggao, CVMC hospital chief, said they expect to be able to conduct tests on 300 to 400 specimens daily.
“This will expedite the testing of specimens and we are thankful for all those who helped us in realizing this laboratory project,” he said during the opening rites.
The hospital acquired its reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) machine and also received another machine from the Department of Health (DOH) central office.
“This will help augment the testing capacity and early diagnosis and improve chances of recovery of Covid patients from the provinces of Isabela, Cagayan and other areas in the region and nearby provinces like Apayao and Kalinga,” Baggao said.
Six medical technologists will man the molecular laboratory after undergoing a six-day training at the Baguio General Hospital.
Twenty-five other medical technologists were also recruited and will be taught by the first batch of trained medical technologists at the CVMC.
Two medical specialists, 10 administrative assistants, and eight laboratory technicians were also hired and assigned at the Covid-19 Testing Center.
The CVMC earlier acquired a new ambulance to augment its existing transport vehicles in line with the Covid-19 response. (PNA)
