Proposed law establishing free-standing drug testing lab in CdeO up for study

THE 18th City Council headed by Vice Mayor Raineir Joaquin V. Uy, through the City Council committee on health and sanitation and health insurance chaired by Councilor Maria Lourdes S. Gaane is set to review the proposed ordinance establishing the Cagayan de Oro City free-standing screening drug testing laboratory.

This is pursuant to Section 16 of RA 7160, which mandates every local government unit shall exercise the powers expressly granted, those necessarily implied there from, and those which area essential to the promotion of the general welfare.

The proposed legislation is also in line with the policy of the city government to institute programs and strategies to combat the drug problem.

A free-standing laboratory is located outside the premises of an institution which operates independently,The Power learned.

With the establishment of a drug testing laboratory at the City Health Office, people will have access to quality drug testing laboratory and affordable drug test examinations.

PROVISIONS

Under the proposed ordinance, there shall be an adequate number of medical technologists and other health professionals with documented training and experience to conduct the needed laboratory procedures, among others.

SERVICE FEE

Pursuant to this, patients shall be charged with corresponding service fees ranging from P100 to P250 based on the duly approved government schedule. The service fee shall increase from time to time based on current prices of lab reagents and supplies as approved by the Sanggunian.

Philhealth sponsored member/dependent including Senior Citizens and members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps); and exceptional and meritorious cases as determined and approved by the local chief executive will be exempted from payment of fees as provided for in the proposed ordinance. (SP/JBD)