DOH Mandates P2,800 Price Cap on Rapid HIV Tests to Enhance Healthcare Access
In a significant step toward making healthcare more affordable, the Department of Health (DOH) has officially set a price ceiling of P2,800 for the Rapid HIV Diagnostic Algorithm (rHIVda) across all clinical laboratories in the Philippines. This directive, outlined in Department Circular No. 2026-0057, targets the high and inconsistent costs that have previously burdened patients, with some private facilities charging over P4,000 for confirmatory results.
Standardizing Costs for Greater Transparency
The DOH emphasized that this price cap is designed to standardize expenses and protect clients from excessive fees. All laboratories are strongly encouraged to adjust their charges to align with this amount, ensuring transparency in billing practices. The agency clarified that the P2,800 fee is all-inclusive, covering essential components such as test kits, administrative overhead, and operational costs, thereby eliminating hidden charges.
Ensuring Compliance and Accessibility
To enforce this new regulation, the DOH has mandated that all 193 licensed rHIVda laboratories, as recorded on December 31, 2025, must prominently display these rates in visible areas within their facilities. This measure aims to promote accountability and inform patients of their rights. Additionally, the department reiterated that laboratories must accept referrals from both within and outside their regions, preventing any patient from being denied service due to geographical barriers.
This initiative reflects the government's commitment to improving public health outcomes by lowering financial barriers to essential diagnostic services. By capping prices, the DOH hopes to encourage more individuals to seek testing, ultimately contributing to better HIV prevention and management efforts nationwide.
