The Ministry of Health of Panama (MINSA, for its acronym in Spanish) approved an exception to the diagnostic evaluation to self-administered tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) and its new variants in nasal swab samples, which is one of the procedures for obtaining the health registry.

The resolution was issued on January 24, motivated by the rapid spread of the infectious disease and the need to have tests that can be self-applied by the population in Panama. The exception is for self-administered tests for the detection of Covid-19 nucleocapsid protein antigen in nasal swab samples.

The resolution establishes and clarifies the requirements to obtain the health registration by any public institution, private establishment or natural person that imports and markets such tests. In turn, it is indicated that the health register will be in force until the MINSA considers that this extraordinary public health measure should remain in force.

The results obtained through the self-administered tests for the detection of Covid-19 in nasal swab samples are of an indicative nature, without diagnostic value, except for what may be ordered by the MINSA.

The resolution will remain in force until the MINSA considers it necessary.

For more information, please contact us.