DOH denies restricting labs from releasing COVID-19 test results

On Monday, August 17, the Department of Health (DOH) denied a statement by Senator Richard Gordon that laboratories are not allowed to release positive COVID-19 test results to patients.

The DOH clarified that it does not restrict labs from issuing their results to patients and there is no need for permission from the DOH as long as they follow existing guidelines.

Senator Gordon said more than 5,000 people who tested positive since July 30 have not been informed of their status, potentially increasing community transmission.