During the summer, an average of 5.3 people out of 1,000 were given the smear test every week, according to an analysis by RTS published today. In neigbouring France and Germany, the figure was closer to 8 and as high as 17.6 in the US.
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When questioned by RTS, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) responded that a lack of capacity was not the problem. According to the FOPH, the maximum testing capacity fluctuates between 20,000 and 25,000 samples per day compared to the 16,000 to 17,000 tests currently being carried out. However, the FOPH says it is working “to ensure an even greater volume”.
Other factors behind the numbers are that testing in in Switzerland is done in traditional medical structures like hospitals and clinics and almost exclusively on people showing symptoms of the virus. According to the FOPH, the responsibility for deciding who gets tested lies with the cantons. To improve access, the federal authorities recommend expanding the pool of testing options such as drive-in centres.
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What is considered enough when it comes to coronavirus testing?
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In this second collection of answers to readers’ questions, we explore who can get tested, and whether an optimal testing rate exists.
Government to pay for Covid tests to contain pandemic
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The Swiss government has agreed to foot the bill for medical tests for coronavirus infections to encourage the population to participate in prevention efforts.
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In frustration at the government’s decision to check only high-risk groups, some Swiss cantons have set up their own testing facilities.
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If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.