A Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory here is now open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to provide testing services to more Pangasinenses and hasten the release of results for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In an interview on Thursday, Provincial Health Office (PHO) chief Dr. Anna Ma. Teresa de Guzman said the result of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests in the facility can now be processed within six hours.

“We are now accepting walk-ins as well for those who wanted to avail of the RT-PCR tests,” she said.

De Guzman said the testing fee in the facility is also lower at PHP3,800 compared to other facilities that charge PHP5,500.

She said the molecular laboratory at the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital can process and test 92 specimens per run for two hours.

The extension of operational hours came along with an intensified measure to prevent the local transmission of Delta variant of the coronavirus in the province.

In Executive Order No. 0081, Governor Amado Espino III said the Prevent-Detect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate Strategy shall be continued and strengthened.

The strategy includes active case finding, intensify contact tracing, and immediate quarantine or isolation, among others. (PNA)