PANJIM: The State government on Monday announced D-Dimer and Interleukin-6 level tests free of cost. These tests are routinely done for COVID-19 patients.
The announcement follows the rising number of COVID-19 cases and infection related deaths of those with co-morbidities.
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In a statement issued on Monday, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said Goa is the first State in the country to offer free of cost D-Dimer and Interleukin-6 level tests at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) for COVID-19 patients.
“These tests will be useful in monitoring the patient’s progression to COVID-19 related cytokine storm and help in timely medical intervention to reduce fatality,” Rane said. The patients infected with coronavirus are required to go through a range of tests. For damage to livers and other organs, the D-Dimer tests, which also help detect cytokine storm (that cause aggressive inflammatory response) and interleukin-6 levels. D-Dimer has been used to measure and assess clot formations in patients’ bodies.
As on Sunday, April 11, the State’s total COVID-19 active case tally stood at 4,265. The month of April, till Sunday, reported 17 COVID-19 related deaths.
Meanwhile, the minister also held a review meeting with the officials from Directorate of Health Services (DHS), GMC Dean Dr Shivanand Bandekar to review arrangements at South Goa District Hospital.
After the meeting, Rane said the decision has been taken to requisite additional staff at South Goa District Hospital along with shuttle services for consultants and doctors to and from GMC.
“I have also instructed them to ensure all PHCs and CHCs are equipped with sufficient protective gears to ensure optimum safety while they interact with patients,” he said adding that 108 ambulances will be stationed at ESI Hospital, Margao and South District Hospital for patients referred for CT Scan.
“Our team is working towards ensuring we are fully equipped and are able to manage rising cases in the State,” the minister said.
