Bulk Purchase Programme to Allow Households to Purchase Antigen Rapid Test Kits More Competitive Price

88 Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Health whether the Government will consider establishing a bulk purchase programme to allow households who require more antigen rapid test kits to purchase them at a more competitive price from the Government rather than from retail pharmacies and shops.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Both MOH and commercial retailers are already buying in bulk, to replenish our stock and supply their stores respectively.

MOH has also taken further steps to make antigen rapid test kits as available and affordable to the public as possible. We sourced and approved affordable and effective kits, have distributed a round of free kits to all households, and are currently doing a second round of distribution. Individuals on Health Risk Warning can also withdraw free kits from 200 vending machines around the island.

We also monitor the overall supply levels and are prepared to release Government stocks to retailers when there are shortages.